Liverpool have no intention of loaning Giovanni Leoni to Juventus in January, although the Bianconeri are interested in bringing the 19-year-old centre-back back to Serie A, according to CaughtOffside.
The report says the decision is based on Liverpool’s plans for Leoni, who is still working his way back towards full participation in the Premier League. The update isn’t a direct statement from either club: CaughtOffside explains Liverpool’s loan objection to Football Insider in January and says Juventus’ interest has been reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Liverpool plan to manage Leoni’s return
Leoni is seen as part of Liverpool’s long-term project and first-team picture, rather than a player the club wants to develop elsewhere. The reported plan is to gradually increase his minutes once he returns to fitness, rather than putting him straight into a heavy workload.
CaughtOffside also reports that Andoni Iraola will need a defender in the second half of the campaign. Liverpool are hoping Leoni will return to Premier League action in October and adjust his progress in the coming weeks to both his role at Anfield and his pursuit of Juventus.
Juventus have already been linked with Leoni as they consider their defensive options He expressed his interest in Leoni It forms part of a longer story surrounding the Bianconeri’s recruitment. For now, however, a temporary move in January is not an option Liverpool are willing to entertain, according to the report.
The direct route of “Juventus” is closed
The rejection removes the clearest short-term route for Juventus, but does not rule out Liverpool rejecting every future offer. The report states that the Italian club is unlikely to lose interest; any further move will depend on developments at Anfield and Leoni’s return to regular football.
Retaining him could also be important for Liverpool if defensive demands increase in the second half of the season. The club intend to carefully manage his protocols as they work towards a competitive move, while Juventus should move away from a loan move in January if Liverpool’s position does not change. No decision on permanent or temporary transfer has been made since then.