Liverpool are reportedly on the verge of securing the signature of Parma centre-back Giovanni Leoni in a deal worth around £26 million. The agreement will likely push Liverpool's summer spending past the £300 million mark.

Leoni, an 18-year-old Italian defender, is considered a highly-rated prospect, and several top clubs in Serie A and the Premier League have been monitoring him. However, Liverpool have moved swiftly to secure his services. The club's sporting director, Richard Hughes, has been in contact with his Parma counterpart, Federico Cherubini, and an agreement between the two clubs is close after further talks.

Leoni's arrival at Anfield is not expected to result in him being immediately loaned back to Parma. Instead, he will join Liverpool's first-team squad, providing competition for places alongside Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, and Joe Gomez. Gomez is currently recovering from an Achilles issue detected during the Reds' pre-season tour of Asia.

Described as a hard-working, humble, and determined player, Leoni is also viewed as a potential linchpin of the Italian national team's defense for years to come. He made 17 appearances for Parma last season, showcasing his talent and potential. Before Liverpool's firm interest, Inter Milan, under the management of Leoni's former coach Cristian Chivu, were also keen on acquiring the young defender.

Liverpool have been searching for a young centre-back for the past two summers, with initial interest in Chelsea's Levi Colwill following his loan spell with Brighton in 2023. While Liverpool have also been linked with Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi, the deal for Leoni appears to be much more advanced.

The transfer is subject to the completion of necessary formalities, but it is believed that Leoni has already made his decision to join Liverpool, despite interest from other clubs like Inter Milan. Parma will also retain a sell-on clause in the agreement.