Leoni is an Italy Under-19 international and has already made his debut for Padova in 2023. He said he was inspired by Virgil van Dijk, who is now his captain at Liverpool. Leoni will be vying for a role in the team's defence, potentially as understudy to the centre-back duo of Van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate.

The signing is part of manager Arne Slot's efforts to strengthen the team's defence, following the departure of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen. Slot has spent over £270 million on new signings since Liverpool's title triumph last season, including Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, and Hugo Ekitike.

Leoni is set to watch his first Premier League match with Liverpool against Bournemouth on Friday, and is expected to join the team's squad once the paperwork is complete. He has expressed his excitement and gratitude at the opportunity to join one of the world's best clubs.