SPORT SKY SPORT reported this afternoon that Liverpool and Everton's opponents are close to a £12 million deal for a Barcelona defender, an early boost that has been confirmed as "medical done."

Medical done’ – Liverpool and Everton’s rivals close to £12m deal for Barcelona defender in early boost

One of Everton and Liverpool’s Premier League rivals are close to completing some early transfer business

Everton and Liverpool’s Premier League rivals Crystal Palace are on the cusp of signing Barcelona defender Chadi Riad after the player completed his medical at the Selhurst Park club.

The Eagles enjoyed an impressive end to the league campaign as they finished 10th on 49 points. The appointment of manager Oliver Glasner was a catalyst for a huge surge in form as they won six of their final seven games, including a 1-0 win over Liverpool at Anfield. They also defeated West Ham 5-2, beat Manchester United 4-0 and thumped Champions League-bound Aston Villa 5-0 on the final day of the season.

Complex transfer situation could see Barca defender make two transfers in one year - Football España

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports a medical has been completed for Riad, with the deal set to be completed. BBC Sport reported last week the agreement is worth £12m plus a possible £2m in add-ons.

The 20-year-old from Palma on the Spanish island of Mallorca spent last season on loan at La Liga club Real Betis. He has made just one senior appearance for Barcelona while playing 37 times for Barcelona B, scoring three goals. The centre back played 30 times in all competitions for Betis last term.

Complex transfer situation could see Barca defender make two transfers in one year - Football España

Central defence is also an area that will be of importance to Liverpool and Everton throughout the summer transfer window. The Reds will need to bolster the position after Joel Matip left the club on a free transfer following the expiration of his contract.

The 32-year-old picked up a serious knee injury against Fulham in December which proved his last appearance for Liverpool. The Reds, along with rivals Manchester United, have reportedly been tracking Sporting CP defender Gonçalo Inácio. The 22-year-old has a reported release clause of £51m.