Liverpool, — Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed that the Premier League champions have reached an agreement with Parma to sign 18-year-old centre-back Giovanni Leoni for a reported £26 million ($35 million).
Speaking at a press conference ahead of Friday’s league opener against Bournemouth, Slot said the highly-rated Italian prospect who has made just 17 Serie A appearances is yet to officially sign but praised the move as part of the club’s defensive rebuilding.
Liverpool, who spent £260 million earlier this summer on Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez, have been in the market for a centre-back since Jarell Quansah’s departure to Bayer Leverkusen. Injuries to Joe Gomez and uncertainty over Ibrahima Konate’s future have further depleted options at the back.
“The clubs have agreed a deal but he hasn’t signed for us yet. The moment he signs for us I can go into more detail,” Slot said, adding that the club may still pursue additional cover, with Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi among reported targets.
Liverpool are aiming to defend their title for the first time since 1984, but Slot acknowledged the challenge will be tougher this season after significant squad changes.
Five senior players including Trent Alexander-Arnold, Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez, and Caoimhin Kelleher have left Anfield, alongside the tragic loss of Diogo Jota in a car accident last month.
“We have lost five to six players who played quite a lot of minutes last season, and brought in four, so it’s normal there is adaptation,” Slot noted. “This year will be even harder than before.”
The biggest signing of the summer, Florian Wirtz, arrived from Leverkusen in a deal that could reach a British record £116 million. Slot is confident the 21-year-old Germany international has the mentality to handle the pressure.
“He is mentally strong, he doesn’t get distracted by a transfer fee. Good players always find a way to play well in good teams,” Slot said.
Liverpool kick off their title defence at Anfield on Friday night, with eyes now on whether Leoni’s arrival will be sealed in time to feature this month.
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