Inter Milan, AC Milan Near Signing Liverpool-Linked Parma Defender Giovanni Leoni

Liverpool is actively seeking to strengthen its defense this summer, focusing on signing Parma defender Giovanni Leoni, an 18-year-old highly regarded in Serie A. While Liverpool has reportedly made direct enquiries and is considered a strong candidate for Leoni's signature, competition from Italian giants Inter Milan and AC Milan remains fierce, with both clubs prioritizing the defender and potentially needing to make significant player sales to finance the transfer. Liverpool's pursuit of Leoni is part of a broader strategy to secure young, promising center-backs, although recent patterns suggest the club might be trailing in this race, especially given Inter Milan's appointment of Christian Chivu, who previously managed Leoni at Parma. Meanwhile, Liverpool has also reached an agreement on personal terms with Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, who is seen as a key target to fill the defensive gap, especially as Chelsea has deprioritized his signing. The Reds' ability to finalize these defensive acquisitions will be crucial as the summer transfer window nears its close and the club prepares for the competitive season ahead.