Journalist: 18-year-old Defender ‘Still an Option’ for Liverpool This Summer | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Centre-Back Conundrum: Eyes on Leoni but Patience Required

Liverpool’s defensive depth is once again under scrutiny as the new season looms, and recent comments from Lewis Steele, speaking to Dave Davis for Anfield Index, have given insight into where things currently stand. With Jarell Quansah’s departure to Bayer Leverkusen already confirmed, and Joe Gomez struggling with an Achilles issue, Arne Slot’s backline options are beginning to look worryingly thin.

The pre-season has seen Wataru Endo and Andy Robertson deployed as makeshift centre-backs, not as part of any tactical experiment, but out of necessity. Slot, fresh off a title-winning debut season, knows that to maintain Liverpool’s ambitions on all fronts, reinforcement is essential.

Defensive Gaps Need Plugging

Liverpool now have just three recognised senior centre-halves, and only two are currently fully fit: Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté. While Van Dijk remains the spiritual leader at the back, Konaté has had his share of fitness issues in the past. There is a clear and urgent need for another defender before the transfer window shuts.

This is where Giovanni Leoni enters the conversation. The Parma defender, still only 18, has been linked to Liverpool and other top European clubs in recent weeks. Speaking on the Anfield Index podcast, Lewis Steele confirmed: “He could be an option. He’s definitely one that they’ve been keeping tabs on.” The Italian youth international has impressed scouts with his composure, athleticism and positional awareness beyond his years.

Patience and Positioning in the Market

Despite the obvious qualities Leoni offers, it appears Liverpool are not currently in pole position for his signature. Steele added: “The desire is for that young centre-back and he ticks a lot of boxes but Liverpool might not be at the front of the queue for him at the moment.”

Liverpool’s transfer strategy under sporting director Richard Hughes is clearly one of caution and timing, preferring long-term value over short-term panic. But with the clock ticking and no senior cover behind Van Dijk and Konaté, there’s increasing pressure to act.

Timeframe for Action

The next week could be critical. While fans are understandably eager for movement, there’s an internal acknowledgement that a signing is likely. As Steele noted: “I do think Liverpool will sign a centre-back before the end of the window but we might need some patience in that area.”

Slot and his staff will be hoping that patience pays off, but supporters will want to see concrete progress soon. As Steele concluded: “Let’s see what happens in the next week or so.” Until then, Liverpool’s centre-back situation remains a delicate balancing act between long-term planning and immediate need.