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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Andy Hunter, Louise Taylor and Ben Fisher

Transfer roundup: Liverpool close on £26m Leoni deal to boost Slot’s defence

Giovanni Leoni
Liverpool look to have won the race to sign Giovanni Leoni, who was wanted by several Italian and Premier League clubs. Photograph: Parma Calcio 1913/Getty Images

Liverpool are close to signing Parma’s teenage centre-back Giovanni Leoni for an initial fee of £26m. The 18-year-old was a target for several Italian and Premier League clubs after impressing for Parma last season but Liverpool look to have beaten off the competition as they attempt to increase Arne Slot’s defensive options.

Manchester United were among the Premier League clubs to register interest in the defender. Inter had hoped to reunite Leoni with the former Parma coach Cristian Chivu but were unable to match the financial offer from Liverpool.

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