TBR Football can exclusively reveal that Liverpool are now keen to sign one of the best young defenders in Europe
Liverpool Enter Race for Parma Wonderkid Giovanni Leoni Amid Konate Contract Uncertainty
Liverpool’s search for a new centre-back has intensified, with Richard Hughes — the club’s Director of Football — identifying Giovanni Leoni as a key target, sources have told TBR Football.
As Ibrahima Konate’s contract talks stall, and with the Reds cooling on a deal for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, attention has turned toward Serie A, where Leoni has emerged as one of Europe’s most exciting young defenders.
Reds Join Host of Premier League & European Giants in Leoni Pursuit
According to Graeme Bailey, Liverpool are far from alone in their interest. Chelsea, Tottenham, Newcastle, and Bournemouth are also monitoring the 18-year-old Parma star, while AC Milan, Inter, and Juventus are among a growing list of admirers in Italy.
Leoni only joined Parma from Sampdoria in June 2024 for around £10m, but his rapid rise has already made him a hot property. Despite Parma’s desire to keep their No.46, the chance to triple their investment may prove too tempting to resist.
“One scout told me Leoni is probably the best young defender he watched last season — composed, elegant, and defensively astute,” Bailey revealed. “He was even compared to Dean Huijsen.”
“Parma were hoping to keep him under the radar, but with so many clubs watching Zion Suzuki, Leoni’s quality couldn’t stay hidden for long. Clubs are circling.”
Parma Bracing for Summer Storm
While Parma want to retain their rising star, the increasing interest could force their hand. Liverpool, needing a long-term option at the back, may view Leoni as a perfect fit to replace Jarell Quansah or serve as an insurance policy for Konate, whose deal expires next year.
And it’s not just Leoni drawing Premier League attention at Parma.
Zion Suzuki Also on Premier League Radar
Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki is attracting interest from Manchester United and West Ham, with the latter already making contact as new boss Graham Potter eyes a new No.1.
However, Suzuki — unlike Leoni — is not actively pushing for an exit, meaning West Ham may need to work hard to convince the 22-year-old to leave Serie A.