Liverpool have agreed a deal to sign Parma defender Giovanni Leoni.

It is understood the Reds will pay £26million plus add-ons for the 18-year-old.

He played most of pre-season with just two recognised specialists in the role – Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate – as Joe Gomez, who returned to training this week, was injured and Jarell Quansah was sold to Bayer Leverkusen.

Liverpool closing in on £26m deal to sign 18-year-old Parma defender Giovanni Leoni as Arne Slot seeks defensive reinforcements	Liverpool transfer news as Marc Guehi 'wants' move and Parma 'happy' with Giovanni Leoni deal	Liverpool exploring deal for Parma defender Giovanni Leoni

Liverpool are still interested in Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi, who has a year left on his contract, but have so far been unable to agree a fee.