Liverpool FC have signed defender Giovanni Leoni from Parma, pending international clearance and a successful work permit.
The 18-year-old completed his medical and agreed a long-term contract at the AXA Training Centre today.
Leoni broke through in Serie A with Parma in 2024-25, making 17 appearances and scoring once.
He made his professional debut for Padova in March 2023, shortly after turning 16, and spent the latter half of the 2023-24 season on loan at Sampdoria, featuring 12 times and scoring once.
Born in Rome, the 6ft4in centre-back has also represented Italy at U19 level, earning seven caps. He will wear Liverpool’s No. 15 shirt.
“I’m very happy to be here. It’s a really great sensation and I’m honoured to be here,” he told Liverpoolfc.com during his first official interview.
“Yeah, a lot [of excitement]. I’m so honoured. I was very happy [about Liverpool being interested]. When I saw this I said, ‘Wow, this is crazy.’ I’m very happy.”
“I want to improve a lot with my new teammates in training and after on the pitch, in the Premier League and the Champions League,” added Leoni.
“I’ll watch the game [against AFC Bournemouth at Anfield tonight] in the stadium, see the game and then after the game it’s a new journey.”
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