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Liverpool have plenty of fresh faces in training and some have shown real signs of promise.

The Reds are gearing up for a huge game against Newcastle United on Monday night, with this one set to be one of their most fierce encounters all season.

Not only is travelling to St James’ Park a tricky one to navigate, but the fact that it is under the lights and amid all the Alexander Isak speculation makes it even worse.

Arne Slot has some big decisions to make ahead of this game and after showing signs of weakness against Bournemouth, the defence could be an area that sees a shake-up.

New signing Giovanni Leoni has a chance of featuring, albeit a rather slim chance, but after what his manager has just said about him in his press conference, the signs are very promising.



Photo by Nikki Dyer – LFC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images

At just 18, coming to a different country can be hard enough, but joining the Premier League champions only ramps up the pressure.

However, based on everything that has been said about the young Italian, Liverpool seem to have a serious player on their hands.

And, after less than a week in training, Slot clearly agrees, with the Dutchman raving about his latest signing ahead of their trip to Newcastle.

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He’s a good-looking guy like most Italians!

He has trained with us three times and had three good sessions,” Slot said in his press conference.

We see him as a bright prospect.”

READ MORE: Andy Robertson has already shown why Liverpool fans need to be patient with ‘quality’ star this season

The Italian is seen as the heir to Virgil van Dijk’s throne, with Leoni once being compared to Paolo Maldini, suggesting that everyone in his homeland thinks he is destined for the very top.

Of course, Liverpool fans will be hoping for the same thing, although whether he is ready just yet is not confirmed.

After impressing in training so far, the next step for the youngster is to make his debut, and this could come on Monday night.

However, barring any late injuries, it is very unlikely he starts, with van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate still expected to play from the get-go despite a sub-par performance in the season opener.

Handing the 18-year-old his debut in a game as hostile as this might also not be the best idea, with tempers likely to boil over and the Newcastle fans aiming to make it as tough as possible.

Leaving him on the bench to soak up the atmosphere and watch from afar might be the best option, with Slot likely only bringing him on if he absolutely has to.
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