Report: Premier League champions plan Carabao Cup introduction for youngster | OneFootball

Giovanni Leoni Pencilled in for Liverpool Debut Against Southampton

Liverpool fans are set to witness the Premier League champions unveil one of their most exciting young signings of the summer, Giovanni Leoni. The Italian centre-back, who joined from Parma for £26 million in August on a six-year contract, is expected to make his Liverpool debut in the Carabao Cup third round clash against Southampton on 23 September, according to Chris Bascombe of The Telegraph.

Summer Transfer Decision Highlights Ambition

Leoni’s move to Anfield was notable not just for the fee, but for the decision-making behind it. Parma CEO Federico Cherubini revealed that Newcastle United had tabled a higher offer, described as “more advantageous” than Liverpool’s, yet the teenager chose the Reds:

“I’ve always said we wanted to keep him, and he’s always said he’d be happy to stay here,” Cherubini told Gazzetta di Parma.

“We even turned down an offer from Newcastle, which was more advantageous than the one Liverpool eventually made. 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.”

The choice reflects Leoni’s ambition, opting for a club with a clear project and a platform to grow in one of Europe’s top leagues, rather than a more immediate financial gain.

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International Experience Yet to Materialise

Leoni’s potential was further recognised when he was called up to the Italy national team this September. Despite his inclusion in the initial 27-man squad, he did not feature in either of Italy’s World Cup qualifiers against Estonia and Israel. Manager Gattuso opted for experience in defence, leaving the teenager to observe from the stands as Italy recorded a 5–0 win over Estonia and a 5–4 victory against Israel.

“It would have been great for Leoni to get some minutes in his legs having not yet featured for Liverpool so far,” reports Bascombe. While international experience will take time to come, the early recognition signals Leoni’s quality and potential for the future.

Liverpool Integration and Debut Prospects

Arne Slot has shown a willingness to rotate his squad in cup competitions, making the Carabao Cup a logical platform for Leoni’s first appearance. Bascombe notes:

“Youngster Giovanni Leoni was signed from Parma and is a top prospect who is pencilled in to make his debut in the Carabao Cup this September.”

Last season, Liverpool’s approach to cup games demonstrated that young players are given genuine opportunities to prove themselves. Leoni will need to adapt quickly to the pace and physicality of the Premier League, but this early introduction could set the tone for a bright future at Anfield.

Parma Reflections and Future Expectations

Cherubini reflected on Leoni’s rise and departure, highlighting the pride in nurturing talent:

“On the one hand, it’s disappointing to lose such a promising young player, but on the other, we’re proud to have believed in him in unsuspecting times, when he’d only played a few games in Serie B.”

Leoni played 17 Serie A matches in his debut season, attracting attention from both Milan clubs, and now embarks on his first step abroad. His development at Liverpool will be closely monitored by fans and pundits alike, who will be eager to see how the teenager adapts to the challenges of English football.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool supporters will welcome the arrival of Giovanni Leoni with cautious optimism. The club has shown ambition in securing a young player willing to commit to their project, and Slot’s track record in giving opportunities to emerging talent bodes well for Leoni’s integration. While the shadow of Diogo Jota’s tragic passing in July 2025 remains, there is a clear need for the club to continue refreshing the squad with high-potential players who can step into the first team.

Leoni’s decision to choose Liverpool over Newcastle suggests a maturity beyond his years, reflecting an understanding that development and playing under a manager like Arne Slot can be more valuable than immediate financial reward. Fans will be keen to see how quickly he adapts to the Premier League, and the Carabao Cup appearance against Southampton will provide an initial test of his composure, positioning, and defensive awareness.

If Leoni impresses in his debut, he could become a regular feature for Liverpool sooner than expected, offering depth in central defence and a long-term solution for the club. Supporters will hope that he embraces the Anfield ethos, demonstrating the same commitment and resilience that has been a hallmark of successful Liverpool defenders in recent years. Early signs suggest he has the potential to become a key player for both club and country in the coming seasons.