A new Liverpool medical seems very likely as Sky reports the Reds have reached a ‘full verbal agreement.’

Liverpool are nearing a permanent deal to sign Parma’s highly-regarded young centre-back Giovanni Leoni.

According to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, the 18-year-old is reportedly ready to join Arne Slot’s team immediately.

This development comes as Liverpool also aim to finalize a transfer for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi.

Liverpool close to signing Giovanni Leoni this summer

There were concerns among some fans that despite a strong start to the summer transfer window, Liverpool might remain thin in several key areas.

The club has strengthened its fullback options by signing Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong, highlighting just how depleted the centre-back position has become after Jarell Quansah’s transfer to Leverkusen.

Upfront, the exits of Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz have left Liverpool with only three senior attackers.

However, Liverpool appear set to address the centre-back issue soon. Florian Plettenberg shared on X (formerly Twitter) that the reigning Premier League champions have reached a full verbal agreement with Leoni.

Furthermore, an agreement with Parma is reported to be close, with Ben Jacobs suggesting a deal could be completed within the next day.

Why Liverpool are interested in Leoni

Liverpool reportedly pursued Leoni amid competition from other top Italian clubs after his impressive debut season in senior football.

If the move for Guehi is completed, it would add much-needed depth to the defence.

Still, while Guehi is a promising England international, Liverpool don’t see him as a direct long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk.

The club’s hopes for that role may lie with Parma’s towering 6’5” defender, Giovanni Leoni.

Leoni has drawn attention for his exceptional ball skills, particularly his ability to play forward passes that break defensive lines. He’s also strong defensively, winning many duels on the ground and in the air.

That said, there is room for growth in his aerial battles, according to stats from DataMB.

Patience needed for Serie A’s most exciting young defender

It’s important to remember that Leoni has only 17 senior appearances, far fewer than the roughly 150 appearances Liverpool usually look for in recruits.

Moving to a new league and environment with limited experience means he will require time and careful development to reach the level Liverpool hopes for.