Manchester United made a late attempt to hijack Liverpool's deal to sign Giovanni Leoni, according to The Times journalist Paul Joyce.
It's been an exciting start to the summer transfer window for the Red Devils, especially for those supporters who were hoping to see major reinforcements in the final third. Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko have been added to Ruben Amorim's side, allowing the Portuguese manager to create a new-look attack for the 2025/2026 season.
Further additions will be necessary for United if they want to climb back to the top half of the Premier League table after such a disappointing 2024/2025 campaign. The Manchester club appear to be active in the market, with the new Premier League campaign now just days away.
Man Utd Make Late Hijack Attempt for Leoni
Giovanni Leoni
Reporting for The Times, Joyce has confirmed that Manchester United showed late interest in Parma defender Leoni as they looked to hijack Liverpool's deal. The Reds are now closing in on securing his signature. Leoni impressed last season under Parma manager Cristian Chivu, breaking into the senior squad in the second half of the campaign.
GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Fabrizio Romano recently confirmed that Liverpool have agreed a deal to sign Parma teenager Leoni, with the youngster set to become part of Arne Slot's first-team plans, despite his age.
Described as a 'machine' by journalist Lewis Steele, Leoni could have been a smart addition for United, but it's always going to be tricky for them to attract targets when going head-to-head with Premier League champions Liverpool. At the age of 18, Leoni is unlikely to have a major impact at Liverpool in the immediate future, so United might not rue missing out for now, but there's every chance he goes on to become a top-level centre-back in the future.
United already have some high-potential defenders on their books for the future, with Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven already making an impact at senior level for the Red Devils. If the young duo develop as many would expect, then they might not regret missing out on Leoni after all.
United are preparing to face Arsenal in their opening Premier League game of the season, before a trip to Fulham the following week. The Red Devils then face Grimsby Town in the Carabao Cup, before ending August with a game against Burnley.
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