Not just Ekitike – CEO reveals Liverpool beat Newcastle for another player this summer | OneFootball

Liverpool Edge Newcastle in Pursuit of Leoni

Liverpool’s summer transfer window was not only about high-profile arrivals but also a quiet battle with Newcastle United for one of Italy’s most promising defenders, Giovanni Leoni. The 18-year-old centre-back, who made the move from Parma in mid-August, is now awaiting his first-team breakthrough at Anfield.

Leoni’s Path from Italy to Anfield

Leoni’s journey has been rapid. Signed by Parma from Sampdoria in 2023, he made just a handful of appearances in Serie B before attracting interest across Europe. His performances carried an assurance beyond his years, prompting attention from both Liverpool and Newcastle.

Parma’s CEO, Federico Cherubini, has since spoken about the transfer, confirming that both English clubs were in the running. He revealed that Newcastle tabled a stronger financial proposal, but Liverpool benefited from the defender’s determination to join Arne Slot’s squad.

“I’ve always said we wanted to keep him, and he’s always said he’d be happy to stay here. We even turned down an offer from Newcastle, which was more advantageous than the one Liverpool eventually made,” Cherubini told Gazzetta di Parma.

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Why Leoni Chose Liverpool Over Newcastle

Although Newcastle were ready to invest significantly, Leoni’s personal preference was clear. According to Cherubini, the teenager expressed a strong desire to move to Liverpool, swayed by the prospect of development at Anfield and the club’s long-term project under Slot.

“When the Reds came forward, our plans changed: both because the offer was very attractive and because the player made it clear he was very happy to take advantage of this opportunity,” Cherubini said.

The decision reflects a growing trend among younger players: opting for environments where their pathway to the first team feels structured and secure, rather than focusing purely on financial packages.

Newcastle’s Position in the Transfer Battle

For Newcastle, losing out on Leoni will have been a source of frustration. The club has prioritised bolstering their defensive ranks to complement Eddie Howe’s attacking structure. Missing out on a long-term prospect like Leoni demonstrates the competitive nature of the market, especially when Liverpool are also active in the same areas.

While Newcastle did add strength elsewhere this summer, the failure to land Leoni highlights the challenge of competing not only financially but also in terms of footballing appeal. For young players, the pull of Liverpool – with its history, infrastructure, and emphasis on developing emerging talent – remains particularly strong.

What Comes Next for Leoni at Liverpool

Leoni has yet to make his debut but has already featured on the bench, including in Liverpool’s fixture against Newcastle. His immediate role is likely to be one of patience, learning under experienced defenders while adjusting to the demands of Premier League football.

For Liverpool, the signing is part of a broader strategy: acquiring players who can become cornerstones in the coming years. For Newcastle, it is a reminder of the fine margins in transfer negotiations. And for Leoni himself, the move represents the next step in a career that many in Italy believe will be long and distinguished.