Liverpool have reportedly been given some good news as talented young centre-back Giovanni Leoni is expected back from injury by the end of the month.

The 19-year-old has still made only one competitive appearance for the Reds since joining from Parma in the summer of 2025, having suffered an ACL injury on his debut for the club last season.

This was a big blow for Leoni, but he’s now closing in on a return to action, with the Athletic reporting that he’ll be back later this month, with Liverpool feeling optimistic about their options in defence.

Despite the departure of Ibrahima Konate at the end of last season, Liverpool’s defence could still be in decent shape if Leoni can do well upon returning, while Jeremy Jacquet also looks promising, and Ronald Araujo has started brightly since his move to Anfield on loan from Barcelona.

Liverpool’s plan for Giovanni Leoni

The Athletic reports that Liverpool initially had big plans for Leoni, with the talented young Italian expected to be eased into the team slowly as a possible long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk.

The teenager had impressed a great deal at former club Parma, and it seems he’s continued to show good focus and professionalism during his time out injured.

The Athletic report that Leoni “used the time wisely to understand more about Liverpool and improve his English”, while “his strong mentality and attitude have subsequently been well received” by Liverpool’s staff.

It’s clear LFC have a big prospect and a great character on their hands, and it will be intriguing to see how Leoni adjusts to being back on the pitch after so long.

Even if some Liverpool fans will have been concerned and frustrated with a lack of defensive signings over the summer, there’s every chance that Leoni can come back and be like a new signing.

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