Liverpool have been on the hunt for defensive reinforcement since the start of June.
Indeed, the Reds have already welcomed Milos Kerkez and former Bayer Leverkusen ace Jeremie Frimpong to Anfield, with both full-backs making their debuts against Preston on Sunday.
However, now that Jarell Quansah has been sold on, Liverpool only have three senior centre-backs among their ranks, which is nowhere near enough cover.
Of course, players such as Wataru Endo could fill in and become Arne Slot’s fourth-choice centre-back, but the Anfield outfit would be far better off if they brought in another natural centre-back this summer.
And, thanks to a fresh update from Italy, it feels like they could be moving a step closer to finalising a deal for one of their rumoured targets.
Inter Milan have made an enquiry for David Hancko
A couple of names have already been thrown around regarding who Liverpool could target as their new centre-back, with Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi seeming to lead the way.
However, one of the most intriguing players to have been put forward is 18-year-old centre-back, Giovanni Leoni.
The Italian had a breakout season in the Serie A last term, with Liverpool and Inter Milan among those interested.
However, as per a new report from La Gazzetta Dello Sport, Inter have now made an enquiry for David Hancko.
The 27-year-old is a centre-back who currently plies his trade for Feyenoord, and since they’ve made a move for him, this could mean their attention has been turned away from Leoni.
La Gazzetta Dello Sport also outline that the fee Parma want for their centre-back is a ‘huge problem’ for Inter as they only have around €30million (£26million) to play with.
Giovanni Leoni would be a solid signing for Liverpool this season
Seeing as though Leoni is still just 18 years old, it’s unlikely that he’d be expecting a regular first-team role with any club he chooses to join.
And, since Virgil van Dijk now has two years left on his Liverpool deal, Leoni is likely to be trained up to be his replacement upon his departure.
The Dutchman is one of the best centre-backs in the world, and with his mentoring skills, he could help turn the Italian into a world beater.
He’s already an impressive talent, as he made 17 appearances last season while also chipping in with one goal.
Of course, only time will tell whether Liverpool will want to fork out the €40million (£34.7million) that Parma desire for their wonderkid, but if they do, they’ll have an outstanding talent on their hands.
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