Liverpool leaves Inter Milan worried with increasing interest in $46M transfer target

Liverpool’s summer transfer business continues to gather momentum with the Reds reportedly stepping up their efforts to bolster its defensive options.

Arne Slot’s inaugural summer at Liverpool has brought notable changes. Following the departures of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Jarell Quansah, the club has brought in Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez to reinforce the full-back roles.

However, the center-back department remains thin. With Ibrahima Konate’s contract still unsettled and the risk of losing him either this summer or on a free next year, Liverpool faces mounting pressure to strengthen its defensive options, with Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate currently the only other two senior center-backs.

Recent reports from Gazzetta dello Sport indicate that Liverpool is stepping up efforts to strengthen its central defense by targeting one of Italy’s most exciting young prospects. According to the Italian outlet, Inter Milan is growing increasingly concerned that the Reds could swoop in with a "concrete offer" for Giovanni Leoni — an 18-year-old centre-back currently on the books at Parma.

Leoni enjoyed a breakout season last term, making 17 appearances and playing a key role in Parma’s successful bid to avoid relegation. At 6'4", the teenager possesses an imposing frame, yet combines that with remarkable poise and technical ability.

Comfortable on both feet, Leoni is known for his composure under pressure and intelligent distribution — attributes that align closely with the style of Liverpool’s back line. In fact, as reported by Calciomercato, Leoni has openly cited Virgil van Dijk as his role model — a detail that’s unlikely to go unnoticed by Liverpool’s recruitment team.

Inter Milan is thought to be preparing a bid in the region of $35 million, but Parma are standing firm on its $46 million valuation. That disparity has left the door ajar for Liverpool to make their move, particularly as the Premier League champions aim to secure long-term stability at the heart of defense.

Leoni’s profile, potential, and admiration for Van Dijk could make him a natural fit for Anfield — if Liverpool choose to escalate its interest. Given the current defensive landscape at Anfield, the appeal of signing a young, versatile, and highly rated talent like Leoni is evident.

\Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Inter Milan is “fearful” Liverpool’s superior financial strength could allow them to outbid the Nerazzurri for Leoni’s signature.

Slot, fresh from guiding Liverpool to their first Premier League title since 2020 in his debut campaign, is known for building squads that blend youth with experience. A move for Leoni fits that philosophy perfectly.

Inter, limited by budget constraints, is reportedly only willing to go as high as $35 million for Leoni. Liverpool, by contrast, has the financial flexibility to meet Parma’s $46 million valuation, placing them in pole position should they choose to act decisively.

With the Reds clearly in the market for defensive reinforcements, this could shape up to be one of the more compelling transfer sagas of the summer.

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