Liverpool are hoping to sign both Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi and Parma’s Giovanni Leoni before the transfer window closes, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
There had been an assumption that the Reds would look to bring one or the other based on which transfer is more likely to be agreed with their respective club.
However, writing on his X account, Romano insisted that Arne Slot’s side are working on “both deals” with there being a possibility that Guehi and Leoni will be brought in together.
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That could prove pretty costly. Palace’s asking price for Guehi is said to be between £40m and £50m, although Eagles chairman Steve Parish has already admitted that they will be forced to sell him before the transfer window closes. Otherwise, he could leave on a free transfer next year.
Leoni’s situation is very different. Parma are not willing to let the 18-year-old leave unless their €40m (£34.5m) asking price is met.
Liverpool may find it difficult to persuade Leoni
Both Paul Joyce and The Athletic have confirmed that the teenager is keen on remaining in Italy, although Serie A teams are unable to meet his valuation.
It means that, unless the Reds manage to persuade Leoni to make the switch to England, he could well remain at Parma for another season.
Will there be any competition for Guehi?
With Newcastle set to sign Malick Thiaw from AC Milan and Chelsea looking at alternative targets, it seems as if Liverpool will have a clear run to secure the 25-year-old’s signature.
It is believed that the Merseysiders would like to spend only £30m on Guehi and it remains to be seen if Palace would agree to sell him for that figure. Either way, it appears as though sporting director Richard Hughes is actively trying to reinforce the backline ahead of September 1st.
Read more about the Liverpool First Team Squad for 2025/26 here