Newsnow reports that Liverpool are edging closer to securing Parma’s Giovanni Leoni, although a move for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi now appears more complicated.
This summer, Liverpool have already invested in players such as Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez and Hugo Ekitike following their Premier League triumph.
Arne Slot remains open to adding more signings, with defensive reinforcements now a priority at Anfield.
Earlier this week, Liverpool’s interest in Guehi, who has entered the final year of his contract at Crystal Palace, was revealed. Back in early July, the outlet also exclusively reported Liverpool’s pursuit of Leoni, with fresh developments emerging over both targets.
Liverpool Near Giovanni Leoni Deal as Marc Guehi Pursuit Hits Obstacle
According to Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool have reached an agreement with Parma for defender Leoni, though negotiations with Crystal Palace for Guehi have proven far less fruitful.
The 18-year-old has agreed a six-year contract and will head to Merseyside immediately. Although there had been discussions about sending Leoni back to Parma on loan, that plan has been shelved for now with a deal for Guehi looking increasingly unlikely.
It was reported on Wednesday that a €35million (£30million) agreement was close, and that figure has now been finalised.
If Guehi were to join later this month, Liverpool could still consider loaning Leoni out, but at present, talks with Palace remain far apart on valuation. With Guehi set to stay at Selhurst Park, Liverpool will keep Leoni to strengthen their central defensive ranks.
“Leoni is a huge talent, Liverpool are delighted to be landing a player they regard as one of the best 18-year-old defenders in the world,” said chief correspondent Graeme Bailey.
“Leoni is hugely excited to be joining – he was open to joining this summer or next and is very happy to be moving now.
“Liverpool, as it stands, have backed away from a potential Guehi deal, but I am told from club sources don’t rule anything out, and as we have seen with Liverpool in his window, that is a wise way to look at it,” he added.
Liverpool are considering alternative centre-back options as the summer transfer deadline approaches.
Wolfsburg’s Konstantinos Koulierakis is among the names under consideration, while Everton’s Jarrad Braithwaite is also on their radar.
Club Brugge’s Joel Ordonez is another identified target, although Marseille are also keen on the defender.
Nottingham Forest’s Murillo is admired at Anfield, with the Reds keeping tabs on several centre-backs throughout the summer window.
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