Liverpool Football Club has reportedly reached an agreement on personal terms with Parma defender Giovanni Leoni. The 18-year-old is set to sign a six-year contract, extending until 2031, as the Reds prepare a bid of approximately €35 million for his services. This move highlights Liverpool’s commitment to strengthening their defensive lineup ahead of the new season.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid is keeping a close eye on Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton. The La Liga giants see the 21-year-old as a potential asset for the future. Wharton, who joined Crystal Palace from Blackburn Rovers in 2024, has become a pivotal player for the Eagles. Interest from Premier League clubs, including Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United, adds to the competition for the young talent.
Transfer Developments Across Premier League
In other transfer news, Newcastle United is weighing a move for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta. The 28-year-old has emerged as a leading candidate to replace Alexander Isak, who is reportedly seeking a transfer to Liverpool. Newcastle is prepared to submit an offer of £40 million for Mateta, who has netted 30 goals in the last two Premier League seasons.
Liverpool attacking midfielder Harvey Elliott is also attracting interest, particularly from RB Leipzig. The 22-year-old played a crucial role in England’s triumph at the European Under-21 Championship this summer. Elliott expressed a desire for more playing time, stating, “I don’t really want to be wasting years [of] my career because it’s a short career.” While no formal agreement has been reached, discussions are ongoing.
Newcastle is intensifying its pursuit of Aston Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey, with negotiations regarding a £40 million deal underway. This move comes as Villa seeks to re-sign Paris Saint-Germain’s Marco Asensio, who had a successful loan stint at Villa Park last season.
Insight into Rising Stars and Market Trends
The growing interest in players like Adam Wharton reflects broader trends in the transfer market. ESPN’s Sam Tighe highlights Wharton’s exceptional ability in progressive passing, noting his ranking in the 93rd percentile in the Premier League last season. His skills make him an attractive prospect for elite clubs, including Real Madrid, as they seek to bolster their midfield options.
Confirmed transfer deals include Rasmus Højlund of Manchester United, who is negotiating a season-long loan to AC Milan with a permanent option worth €45 million. Additionally, Malick Thiaw has joined Newcastle United from AC Milan for a reported £34.6 million, underscoring the competitive nature of the current transfer window.
Other notable rumors suggest that Dusan Vlahovic is set to remain with Juventus after rejecting an approach from AC Milan. Inter Milan is open to offers for Benjamin Pavard, while Atalanta is preparing a bid for Fulham’s Rodrigo Muniz.
As the transfer window progresses, clubs are actively pursuing strategies to enhance their squads for the upcoming season. The market remains dynamic, with several high-profile players potentially changing hands in the coming weeks.
