Liverpool boss Arne Slot has highlighted a striking similarity between Giovanni Leoni and Virgil van Dijk during his first meeting with the new Reds center-back

New Liverpool defender Giovanni Leoni says it is "crazy" and he is "honoured" after completing his move from Parma. The 18-year-old has signed a six-year contract with the club for £26m, plus add-ons.

Giovanni Leoni has passed his Liverpool medical tests and is ready to complete his transfer for €31m plus €4m add-ons and a 10 per cent cut of the sell-on from Parma. The central defender flew out this morning and went through all the necessary check-ups on Merseyside.

Liverpool's move for Parma defender Giovanni Leoni includes the Serie A side having a 10% sell-on clause in the deal for the 18-year-old Italian. (Sky Sports Italia - in Italian)

Liverpool have been looking for reinforcements in central defence since selling Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen last month, and although Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi remains very much in their sights, Leoni would provide extra cover in an area where the Reds are potentially light.