Liverpool announce Giovanni Leoni signing ahead of Premier League season opener | OneFootball

The Reds have tied down Virgil van Dijk’s potential successor to a long-term deal

Liverpool have officially announced the signing of Italian centre-back Giovanni Leoni.

The 18-year-old arrives from Parma for a reported fee of £26million plus add-ons and is not expected to be loaned out, instead becoming an instant option for Arne Slot’s backline as the Reds look to defend their Premier League title.

Last year brought a breakthrough spell in Serie A for the teenager, who made 17 appearances and scored one goal in his sole season in Italy’s top flight after being signed by Parma last summer.

He added: “Yeah, a lot [of excitement]. I’m so honoured. I was very happy [about Liverpool being interested]. When I saw this I said, ‘Wow, this is crazy.’ I’m very happy.”

The Rome-born centre-back, who stands tall at 6ft4in, has represented Italy at youth international level.

Slot’s men are in action tonight to kick off the new campaign with the visit of Bournemouth to Anfield.

After spending heavily on their frontline this summer, Liverpool are seeking reinforcements in defence as Ibrahima Konate enters the final year of his contract. Leoni is seen a strong option for the future, viewed by some as a successor to Virgil van Dijk.

His arrival comes as the Reds continue to court Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, who will begin the season at Selhurst Park but could be tempted by a move away with a few more weeks to go until transfer deadline day.

Leoni’s move takes Liverpool's outlay over £300m this summer. That is £321.5m in paid transfer fees so far, which is currently the third-biggest transfer outlay from a Premier League club in a single window.