Liverpool are set for a new medical as Sky report the Reds have secured a ‘full verbal agreement’.

Liverpool are reportedly close to securing a permanent move for Parma’s highly rated young centre-back Giovanni Leoni, according to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg. The 18-year-old is said to be ready to join Arne Slot’s squad immediately.

This development comes as the Reds also push to finalise a deal for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi. Concerns had been raised earlier in the window that, despite strong early business – including signings to strengthen the fullback positions with Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong – the club remained short at centre-back following Jarell Quansah’s departure to Leverkusen. The exits of Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz have also left only three senior forwards in the squad.

Plettenberg reports that Liverpool have reached a full verbal agreement with Leoni, while talks with Parma are close to completion. Ben Jacobs, citing TalkSPORT’s Alex Crook, suggests the transfer could be wrapped up within 24 hours.

Leoni, who impressed in his breakthrough Serie A campaign, has caught the eye for his composure on the ball and ability to play progressive passes, as well as his aerial and ground duel success. Standing at 6’5″, he is viewed as a potential long-term successor in central defence, though Guehi’s possible arrival would add much-needed depth in the meantime.

However, with only 17 senior appearances to his name, Leoni remains raw. Moving to a new league will require patience and support as he develops, but Liverpool believe the young Italian could grow into one of Europe’s standout defenders.