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Liverpool's season is under way but there are still a number of loose ends to tie up in the transfer market - including the saga of the summer.
The Reds confirmed their seventh signing of the summer as Giovanni Leoni's switch from Parma was rubber-stamped to provide some much-needed back-up in defence after Jarell Quansah's departure several weeks ago. Almost completely offsetting that cost, winger Ben Doak is set to head out of Anfield to join Bournemouth.
But with just over a fortnight until the transfer window closes, Liverpool's business may not stop there, with more arrivals expected on Merseyside - with the futures of Alexander Isak and Marc Guehi still up in the air. Here is our verdict on the latest transfer gossip...
Reds land Leoni amid Guehi update
Liverpool's new 6ft 4ins centre-back Giovanni Leoni has arrived at Anfield.
The 18-year-old completed his $35.2m (£26m) switch and said: “It’s a really great sensation and I’m honoured to be here. When I saw [Liverpool were interested] I said, ‘Wow, this is crazy.’ I’m very happy.”
And Marc Guehi may not be far behind if the comments of Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner are anything to go by. “I’ve been in the football business for too long," Glasner said. "So I know that at any time of any day, things can happen."
Guehi is expected to start Palace's opener at Chelsea on Sunday, however, with a deal seemingly still no closer at this stage.
Liverpool.com says: Leoni looks a great addition and will help provide necessary back-up while offering plenty of potential for the future. Ultimately, Liverpool still look a little light in defence if they're hit by injuries and the club should push to seal a deal for Guehi. If that means meeting Palace's $54.2m (£40m) valuation, it would still be good business.
Doak heading for Bournemouth
Liverpool winger Ben Doak is joining Bournemouth in a $33.8m (£25m) deal.
The winger was withdrawn from the Reds' matchday squad before last night's match against the Cherries ahead of his move. Once considered a potential heir to Mohamed Salah, Doak had plenty of potential suitors following his successful loan spell at Middlesbrough last season, but Bournemouth edged out Porto and Stuttgart for his signature.
Liverpool.com says: Doak is a talented player but suggestions he could replace Salah were always far-fetched and arguably a little unfair. Liverpool have better options available and a move to Bournemouth - in the same way as Harry Wilson - is the perfect opportunity for Doak to play regularly and further his career. The fact his sale pretty much covers the fee for Leoni is another fine example of Richard Hughes and Co. working their magic.
Isak out of Newcastle opener
The saga continues...
And in a surprise to no-one, Alexander Isak will not feature in Newcastle's opening Premier League fixture at Aston Villa on Saturday. But the Reds appear no closer to agreeing a deal to sign the Swedish striker.
Toon boss Eddie Howe said: "We do [have to forget about Isak] - he's not here with us. I want him to play. I want him to train. Alex's situation has been unchanged for a while and that will continue to be the case."
Newcastle are exploring the prospect of signing PSG striker Goncalos Ramos, though, according to the Mail, which would help move things along.
Liverpool.com says: Isak continuing his strike was inevitable. Realistically, Newcastle aren't going to sell Liverpool their best player before the two sides meet on August 25. Liverpool are clearly biding their time knowing the closer the transfer deadline gets, the more desperate Newcastle will be to sell. But it also won't be done unless the Toon line up another striker. This one will probably go right to the wire.
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