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Liverpool's transfer window activity is far from over, with the Reds reportedly targeting Parma starlet Giovanni Leoni. The 18-year-old centre-back made quite an impression in Serie A last season and has earned the admiration of World Cup winner Andrea Pirlo.
Leoni's contract with Parma extends until 2029, but the young Italian prodigy is claimed to be on the club's radar. Arne Slot wants to bolster his defense, with the Reds working on a move for Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi.
However, Liverpool has reportedly held discussions over Leoni, who featured 17 times in Serie A last season, alongside the club's pursuit of Guehi. Beyond Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate, Liverpool's options are somewhat limited following Jarrell Quansah's move to Bayer Leverkusen. Here's a closer look at Italian prospect Leoni.
Giovanni Leoni would be one of the tallest players at Liverpool
Standing at approximately 6'4'', Leoni would be a formidable presence when it comes to set pieces for Liverpool at both ends of the pitch. Should a move go through, he would also become one of the joint-second-tallest players in Liverpool's squad.
That's because he shares the same height as Van Dijk and Rhys Williams. Goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili currently stands as Liverpool's tallest player, measuring an impressive 6'6''.
Andrea Pirlo rates Leoni highly
Before his move to Parma, Leoni developed under Pirlo's guidance at Sampdoria, impressing the Italian icon. Discussing Leoni following his Parma debut, Pirlo said: "I am very happy for him. We are dealing with a fantastic boy and I was sure he would make it to Serie A. He deserves it."
Reflecting on Leoni's character last March, Pirlo noted: "If someone had doubts about starting him from the first minute, I had none. I see him every day in training. He played as a mature youngster; he will become a strong footballer."
Leoni idolises Virgil van Dijk and Chris Smalling
Should Leoni secure a switch to Liverpool, he would get the opportunity to feature alongside one of his soccer heroes in Van Dijk. He has also expressed his admiration for former Manchester United defender Chris Smalling.
Discussing his influences during his time at Padova, Leoni revealed: "I take inspiration from van Dijk and Smalling."
Liverpool fans will be happy to hear of Leoni's appreciation for Van Dijk, but may be puzzled by the defender's second pick. Smalling won two league titles and three other major trophies during his time at Old Trafford, but was not a standout player at United.
However, the 35-year-old enjoyed a successful five-year spell at Roma, where he likely impressed Leoni. Smalling helped the club win the inaugural Europa Conference League before reaching the 2023 Europa League final the following year.
Meanwhile, Liverpool is pursuing a deal for Crystal Palace captain Guehi. The 25-year-old is in his final contract year at Selhurst Park and could leave for free next summer, leading to the Eagles placing a $54M valuation on him.
The Reds are claimed to have agreed personal terms with Guehi, who has earned 23 England caps. It remains to be seen whether Liverpool will meet Palace's valuation or attempt to negotiate the fee.
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