Liverpool have confirmed the signing of highly-rated Parma defender Giovanni Leoni. The 18-year-old joins in a deal worth £26 million, plus add-ons, in a move which takes the club’s summer outlay beyond £300m. Leoni chose a move to Anfield despite interest from top Italian clubs and Premier League rivals.

Either a shot in the dark or an inspired purchase, Liverpool has completed the signing of Italian central defender Giovanni Leoni.

Liverpool have signed 18-year-old defender Giovanni Leoni from Italian side Parma for a fee of £26m plus add-ons. Leoni, who Reds boss Arne Slot confirmed the club had agreed a deal for earlier this week, has signed a contract until 2031.