Liverpool signs Italian defender Giovanni Leoni for $40 million for 2025/26

Liverpool officially announced, on Friday, August 15, 2025, the signing of 18-year-old Italian defender Giovanni Leoni from Parma for 35 million euros ($40 million). The young talent, considered one of Italy’s biggest prospects, signed a contract until June 2031 and is already in Merseyside for medical examinations and to join Arne Slot’s squad. Leoni’s arrival strengthens the defense of the Reds, current Premier League champions, as they aim to maintain competitiveness in the 2025/26 season. The transfer, confirmed by sources like Sky Sports, is part of Liverpool’s robust transfer window, which has already seen heavy investments in players like Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitiké. Leoni, who shone in Serie A with Parma, joins with the goal of developing alongside stars like Virgil van Dijk and competing for a spot in the Premier League and Champions League.

Leoni’s signing comes at a strategic moment for Liverpool. After Jarell Quansah’s departure to Bayer Leverkusen, the defense was left with limited options, relying on Van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, and Joe Gomez, the latter returning from injury. The 1.95m-tall Italian, with modern skills, is seen as a long-term investment with the potential to succeed Van Dijk in the future.

• Defensive reinforcement: Leoni fills the gap left by Quansah’s exit.
• Early experience: At just 18, the defender played 17 Serie A games for Parma.
• Long-term deal: The contract until 2031 reflects the club’s confidence in his potential.

Giovanni Leoni’s meteoric rise

Giovanni Leoni began his career in Padova’s youth academy, making his professional debut at 16 years and three months in 2023, becoming the youngest player to feature in Italy’s Serie C that season. His rapid rise caught Sampdoria’s attention, where he played 12 matches in Serie B during 2023/24. At Parma last season, Leoni solidified his reputation as a prospect, with strong performances in 17 games and a goal against Cagliari, becoming the youngest defender in Parma’s history to score in Serie A. His versatility, playing as both a center-back and right-back, was a key factor in attracting Liverpool.

Born in Rome and a fan of the local club, Leoni draws inspiration from Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk. The chance to train and play alongside the Dutchman was a major reason for accepting the Reds’ offer. In an interview with the club’s official channels, Leoni expressed his excitement: “Being at one of the world’s biggest clubs is a dream. I want to learn from the best and contribute to the team’s success.”

Heavy investment in the transfer window

Liverpool is navigating a busy transfer window, with investments exceeding £260 million (about $340 million). Alongside Leoni, the club secured high-profile names like Florian Wirtz for £100 million ($130 million), Hugo Ekitiké, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez. The Reds’ strategy is clear: strengthen the squad to maintain Premier League dominance and chase the Champions League title. Leoni’s arrival balances experience and youth in defense, especially after significant departures like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Darwin Núñez.

• Florian Wirtz: German midfielder signed for a club-record £100 million.
• Hugo Ekitiké: Forward adds versatility to the attacking line.
• Jeremie Frimpong: Right-back brings dynamism to Arne Slot’s system.
• Milos Kerkez: Young Hungarian left-back is a bet for the future.

Jarell Quansah’s move to Bayer Leverkusen for £35 million left the defense vulnerable, especially with Joe Gomez recovering from injury and Ibrahima Konaté having just one year left on his contract. Leoni, with his height and 88.7% pass accuracy in Serie A, is seen as both an immediate and long-term solution.

Expectations for the 2025/26 season

Liverpool’s Premier League debut against Bournemouth on Friday marks the start of a season filled with expectations. Under Arne Slot, the Reds aim for a second consecutive English title, a feat not achieved since 1984. Leoni’s signing strengthens the defense, but the club is still in talks with Crystal Palace for Marc Guéhi, suggesting more defensive reinforcements may arrive before the transfer window closes.

Leoni, with his anticipation and game-reading skills, is expected to adapt quickly to the Premier League’s intensity. His aerial duels (63% success rate) and precision in short and progressive passes (88.7%) make him a modern defender, ideal for Slot’s system, which emphasizes ball-playing and defensive compactness.

• Quick adaptation: Leoni is set to join the first team without a loan spell.
• Playing style: Combines physical strength with tactical intelligence.
• Tough fixtures: Liverpool faces Bournemouth, Newcastle, and Arsenal in upcoming rounds.

Leoni’s impact on the squad and market

Leoni’s signing also reflects Liverpool’s strategy of investing in young talents with resale potential. Valued at 35 million euros, the defender had already drawn interest from Italian giants like Inter Milan and AC Milan before joining the Reds. His transfer includes a future resale clause for Parma, signaling confidence in his growth. At Liverpool, he’ll have the chance to learn from Van Dijk, Konaté, and Gomez while competing for minutes in a star-studded squad.

Manager Arne Slot, in a press conference, praised Leoni’s versatility: “He’s young but has shown quality in a competitive league like Serie A. His arrival gives us depth and tactical options.” Italian media, including legendary coach Arrigo Sacchi, hailed the move, pointing to Leoni as a potential future starter for Italy’s national team.

Tributes and emotional challenges

Liverpool’s opener against Bournemouth will also feature tributes to Diogo Jota and his brother, André Silva, who tragically passed away in a car accident in July 2025. The club plans emotional moments at Anfield, adding weight to the match. Leoni, upon arriving, expressed solidarity: “It’s an honor to be here at such a special time. I want to help the team honor Jota’s memory with victories.”

Liverpool faces a demanding schedule, with matches against Newcastle and Arsenal looming. Leoni’s integration will be crucial for maintaining defensive solidity, especially in high-intensity clashes. His youth and inexperience may pose challenges, but the support of veterans like Van Dijk and the Anfield atmosphere should ease his transition.

• Tribute to Jota: Anfield prepares an emotional homage in the opener.
• Tough schedule: Newcastle and Arsenal matches will test the defense.
• Team support: Van Dijk will mentor Leoni on and off the pitch.

Leoni’s technical profile and potential

Nicknamed the “little lion” in Italy, Giovanni Leoni combines physical and technical attributes that set him apart as a prospect. Standing at 1.95m, he excels in aerial duels with a 63% success rate and boasts 88.7% pass accuracy. His ability to neutralize dangerous plays and anticipate offensive moves aligns with Arne Slot’s tactical demands. At Parma, he stood out for his defensive blocks and proactive positioning.

Leoni’s experience under pressure, having worked with Andrea Pirlo at Sampdoria and Christian Chivu at Parma, showcases his strong mentality. His professional debut at 16 and rapid rise highlight his potential. English media already compare him to Alessandro Bastoni, another young Italian defender who became a key player at Inter Milan.

• Height and strength: 1.95m with 63% aerial duel success.
• Ball-playing ability: 88.7% pass accuracy in Serie A.
• Elite coaching: Pirlo and Chivu shaped his playing style.