The club’s plan is for Leoni to be immediately integrated into the first-team set-up for the upcoming season with any suggestion of a loan move completely ruled out.

The burst of pace he can utilise, following by his quick feet when dribbling made him a dangerous player for Liverpool to have signed, regardless of his age.

Roberto Baronio, assistant coach during his Sampdoria days, praised his tactical awareness: “He’s a very smart guy. When you have above-average intelligence, you can go further. He reads the opponent...