Leoni to Directly Join First Team; Loan Unlikely

LIVERPOOL: Arne Slot, the manager of Liverpool, verified on Thursday that the club has finalized the acquisition of 18-year-old Giovanni Leoni from Parma of Serie A to reinforce their defensive lineup.

News outlets indicate the transfer sum is approximately €26 million ($30.34 million), though the club has not formally revealed the financial specifics.

Leoni is slated to integrate into the first-team squad immediately, and there are no intentions for a loan assignment.

The young Italian centre-back is anticipated to offer support alongside Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, and Joe Gomez. The latter’s participation in Friday’s season opener is uncertain because of an Achilles problem.

Slot, as he gets ready for his Premier League debut as Liverpool’s manager, admitted that the defense appeared fragile in the pre-season but is still upbeat.

Slot’s Statement

“There are reasons for it,” Slot stated. “The standard required here is 10/10. We are performing commendably in all aspects, but ‘commendably’ is insufficient. We must elevate our performance. By Friday evening’s match against Bournemouth, there will be no justifications.”

The Anfield game is expected to be a poignant occasion, following the unfortunate passing of forward Diogo Jota and his brother in a car crash the previous month.

Liverpool is encountering a demanding beginning to the season, with challenging matches scheduled against Newcastle United and Arsenal following the Bournemouth opener.

Last month, the Reds finalized the acquisition of German attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen for €136.3 million.

Slot applauded the 22-year-old’s attitude and inventiveness but highlighted the adaptation needed for the Premier League’s intensity.

Slot on New Player

“Competent players invariably discover a means of participating within a proficient team; he embodies a competent player and contributes to a proficient team,” Slot remarked.