Report: Liverpool poised to edge out Man United and Newcastle in £26m deal

Liverpool are on the verge of signing Parma defender Giovanni Leoni, with The Times reporting that the deal is set to cost around £26 million. Manchester United and Newcastle United are said to have made late attempts to secure the 18-year-old’s signature, but Liverpool have emerged victorious in the race.

Highly rated across Europe, Leoni is regarded as a potential future star. With the right guidance, he could develop into a top-tier defender for the Reds. His arrival will bolster Liverpool’s defensive depth, and the club hopes the Italian can adapt swiftly to English football and challenge for a regular starting role in the upcoming season.

While Liverpool have also been linked with Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, it’s unclear whether that pursuit will continue. Regardless, the current transfer window has been an impressive one for the club, adding multiple promising talents.

For Leoni, the chance to join a club of Liverpool’s stature will be a major career milestone. He will aim to earn consistent playing time and continue his development under a coaching staff known for nurturing young talent. If he reaches his full potential, the £26 million fee could prove to be a bargain—especially given Liverpool’s current injury concerns with Joe Gomez and Ibrahima Konate, which may open the door for plenty of opportunities this season.