Liverpool identify new defender after Giovanni Leoni injury, Manchester United closing in on two signings - Paper Round

An injury to Giovanni Leoni leaves Liverpool short in defence and The Reds could turn to a high-profile free agent to bolster their ranks. Meanwhile, Manchester United are also making the headlines in Friday's newspapers as they close in on two new signings, and West Ham United's senior players are also retaining faith in manager Graham Potter despite a slow start to the season.

Liverpool identify new defender

The serious injury suffered by Giovanni Leoni could force Liverpool into the market for a new defender, claims the Mail.

The Reds are looking at snapping up Bayern Munich's Dayot Upamecano on a free transfer, after missing out on Marc Guehi on transfer deadline day.

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"Liverpool could have to go hard in the market sooner or later, and Upamecano is said to have attracted interest despite being a regular at Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga," states the outlet.

"There have been talks over a new contract, but nothing has yet been agreed and time is running out for a deal to be done before negotiations can start with foreign clubs.

"A new round of discussions are said to be in place to take place soon.

"Real Madrid are also thought to be among the potential suitors for the 26-year-old if he does look to jump ship."

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Man Utd close in on new midfielder

Manchester United are set to sign a South American teenage midfielder.

The Sun reports the club are close to completing a deal for Colombia Under-17 captain Cristian Orozco, who plays for Fortaleza.

The outlet notes: "Manchester United are closing in on the signing of Colombia Under-17 captain Cristian Orozco.

"Orozco, a defensive midfielder, only joined current club Fortaleza in the summer but United have moved swiftly to strike a deal for the 17-year-old.

"The Colombia youth international has played nine times for the U17s this year and Orozco is scheduled to move to Manchester next year after he turns 18 in July.

"United raided the South American market earlier this year for 18-year-old left-back Diego Leon, who arrived in the summer."

The report adds: "SunSport understand The Red Devils are also keeping tabs on [Sekou] Kone's compatriot Dan Sinate, 19, who plays as a left-back at Angers."

New goalkeeper set to join Red Devils

The Sun also believe Manchester United are on the verge of completing a deal for a new goalkeeper.

Sixteen-year-old Charlie Hardy will join The Red Devils from Derby County, as the club continue to build towards the future.

"Manchester United are in the process of signing teenage goalkeeper Charlie Hardy from Derby County," reads the article.

"Hardy, 16, has played five times for England Under 16s and is going through formalities to complete a move to United.

"Hardy was named on the bench against United U18s when he was only 14 last year and made his debut for Derby U18s at the age of 15.

"As a category one scholar, Hardy can move to another English club at any time over the course of the season."

Potter retains faith of senior players at West Ham

Graham Potter has been given the vote of confidence at West Ham - by the club's senior players.

The Hammers have lost four of their opening five Premier League games, heaping pressure on Potter, who could be replaced by Nuno Espirito Santo or Slaven Bilic, according to reports.

But The Times claims Potter retains the "faith of senior players, who still believe he can turn around the disappointing start to the season".

"Last weekend’s defeat by Crystal Palace means Potter is fighting for his job. Tough trips are to come against Everton and Arsenal before the next international break," the article reads.

"Telegraph Sport understands that Potter, however, is still being backed by senior players in his squad who have expressed their support for him internally and externally over the course of the past week.

"It remains to be seen whether or not that affects the thinking of West Ham chairman David Sullivan and vice-chair Karren Brady, who are the target of large protests by supporters.

"Senior players, the identities of whom are known to Telegraph Sport, have told family and friends this week that they still believe Potter is the best man available for the job, while others have spoken positively about him outside their close circle.

"Furthermore, the names linked with Potter’s position have not generated excitement among those senior players, who are not convinced that a change of head coach would guarantee a better outcome than they believe is currently possible."

Graham Potter manager / head coach of West Ham United looks dejected during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Chelsea at London Stadium on August 22, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

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