Liverpool are closely monitoring one of Europe’s most exciting young defenders, with Giovanni Leoni emerging as a serious option for the Reds this summer.
According to journalist Florian Plettenberg, the 18-year-old Italian centre-back is high on Liverpool’s list of defensive targets and could become a priority if the club’s pursuit of Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi fails to materialise.
Leoni has quickly risen through the ranks in Italy. Despite his tender age, he has shown a natural ability to read the game and contribute in both defensive and build-up phases, making him one of the most highly rated young centre-backs in European football.
Liverpool have made Marc Guehi their top defensive target
Plettenberg reports that Liverpool have been advancing their interest quietly, keeping a close watch on the player’s development while working on their primary target, Guehi.
Even though Guehi remains the preferred choice due to his Premier League experience and readiness to slot straight into the starting XI, negotiations for the England international are expected to be challenging, with Palace reluctant to sell for what Liverpool believe is the right price.
Should those talks hit an impasse, Liverpool are prepared to accelerate their pursuit of Leoni.
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Giovanni Leoni has impressed the Premier League champions
Giovanni Leoni in action for Parma (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
The teenager is also on the radar of several top Italian clubs, which could create competition for his signature. However, Liverpool’s stature, project under Arne Slot, and track record of developing young talents into world-class players could prove to be decisive factors.
Having lost Jarell Quansah this summer, the Reds are looking to sign a new defender.
A player like Guehi would straight away challenge for a spot in the starting line up but someone like Leoni, who is still…
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