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Giovanni Leoni admits it was an ‘easy’ decision to join Liverpool.

Leoni completed an initial £26 million move to the Premier League champions from Parma on Friday as the club’s ninth signing of the summer window.

The Italian centre-back signed a six-year contract with Arne Slot’s side ahead of being in the stands for Friday’s opening clash with Bournemouth at Anfield.

Giovanni Leoni reveals Liverpool signing wish	Giovanni Leoni's first words as Liverpool player after new signing confirmed	Liverpool stance on Marc Guehi transfer after signing Giovanni Leoni

And Leoni revealed his admiration for Virgil van Dijk was key in the decision to leave his homeland as the Reds’ latest defensive reinforcement option.

He said: “It’s one of the best clubs in the world.

I didn’t say no.

“I want to improve a lot with my new teammates in training and after on the pitch, in the Premier League and the Champions League.

“For me, [Van Dijk] is the best defender in the world and I want to meet him as soon as possible.

“His personality is fantastic when he plays, he is so comfortable with the ball and without the ball.