Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has highlighted an interesting similarity between Giovanni Leoni and Reds captain Virgil van Dijk.

Leoni is set to join the first-team squad immediately under the guidance of Slot and should be available to be in contention to face Newcastle after the Reds missed the deadline to register the player for Bournemouth.

Liverpool released a video showing the first meeting between Slot and Leoni.

Giovanni Leoni's first words as Liverpool player after new signing confirmed	Former AC Milan coach makes honest confession on Giovanni Leoni’s first season in Serie A	Giovanni Leoni transfer confirmed as Liverpool fee and contract length emerge

Last season, Leoni broke through at Parma, making 17 appearances under Cristian Chivu during the second half of the campaign.

Given his connection with Chivu, there was a genuine possibility he could have followed the coach to Inter Milan, where Chivu now manages.

The Reds convinced Leoni that Anfield offered the best environment for his development, including a clear pathway to first-team football.

This is also why Liverpool declined Parma’s request to loan him back for the season, choosing instead to integrate him directly into the senior squad.

Leoni adds valuable depth to Liverpool’s squad and is expected to feature in cup competitions this season, as well as potentially in the Champions League depending on the draw.

There is half a centimetre between Giovanni Leoni and Virgil van Dijk
For more news relating to Newcastle United, visit our sister site NUFC Latest Live.