Inter Milan
A knee injury has ruined Giovanni Leoni’s first season at Liverpool. Now, attempts are underway to engineer his Anfield exit.
The youngster’s move to Merseyside came after a host of Italian clubs were chasing his signature. This was covered significantly bySport Witness, as Inter Milan had initially agreed personal terms with the talent.
Their efforts blew up in smoke as Liverpool quickly concluded a deal, landing him permanently.
After Leoni made his debut and picked up a serious ACL injury, he hasn’t featured under Arne Slot. This has seen an idea rise in Italy, with Inter now looking to bring him back to the Serie A in the summer.
Inter ownership set for talks
L’Interista note that Leoni could be part of Inter’s summer overhaul of their squad, as they – once again – want more Italian players in the side.
Manager Cristian Chivu admires the defender, having managed him at Parma last season. He wants to reunite with the 19-year-old but has no intention of letting Liverpool take advantage of his development.
Ideally, they would opt for a loan but this may mostly benefit the Reds. This is why the Oaktree ownership will hold conversations with Inter’s recruitment team to explore ideas over a move.
They want Leoni but want to come across a formula that benefits them.
A permanent deal might not be affordable due to financial reasons. An initial loan with an obligation to buy would suit them but that may not be the same for Liverpool.
This is why conversations are underway to assess how to bring Leoni back home.
Our take: Liverpool have upper hand
Considering Liverpool signed Leoni less than 12 months ago, they will have the upper hand in any exit. Their conditions to let him go will be key and this will make things difficult for Inter.
Besides, he is very young and needs to be eased into the Reds’ side next season. He has top-flight experience from his time at Parma and Liverpool can’t let him go without giving him a proper shot.
A loan with a purchase obligation below what the Reds paid is unlikely. Inter Milan wouldn’t offer a profit to the Premier League club, and therefore this transfer appears difficult.