"We were in a Rocky Balboa boxing gym training yesterday" – Liverpool star Jarell Quansah opens up on preparations under Arne Slot

Liverpool star Jarell Quansah has revealed how intense Arne Slot's training regime can be ahead of his team's upcoming pre-season friendly contest against Arsenal.

During a recent chat with CBS Sports in Philadelphia, United States, Quansah was asked to opine on the Reds' preparations for the match against Arsenal on July 31. He replied (h/t The Echo):

"Arsenal are a brilliant team. They have quality players all over the pitch. It will be a good test but we've been working tirelessly, doing double sessions, to get in the best possible shape. We were in a Rocky Balboa boxing gym training yesterday so that probably tells you everything [about the intensity of training under new boss]."

Showering praise on Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, Quansah added:

"He's the best centre-back in the world. Having a role model like that who I've always looked up to is massive. Virgil is a Rolls-Royce. He's everything I want to be as a centre-back. I can take so much from him. I've learned so much, not just from Virg but from the entire backline. It was good to get away for a few weeks but I'm at the start of my career and I want to keep training and improving."

Sharing his thoughts on his personal growth, the defender continued:

"I'm most proud of the journey I've been on since I started at the academy at the age of five. Seeing all the people who helped me when I was coming through at the academy, I do it for them. The coaches showed trust and last season was an unbelievable experience."

Last season, Quansah broke through into former Reds boss Jurgen Klopp's plans. He started 27 of his 33 appearances across competitions for Liverpool, registering three goals and as many assists as well.

Liverpool keen to sign Brazilian defender

According to Spanish outlet Todofichajes, Liverpool are keen to sign Juventus man Gleison Bremer this summer. They are willing to include a player in a potential deal as the Merseyside outfit deem the Serie A side's asking price of around £51 million to be too steep.

Bremer, 27, has established himself as one of the best centre-backs in the Serie A over the last three seasons. He has netted eight goals and laid out one assist in 83 games across competitions for Juventus.

Liverpool, meanwhile, are also allegedly keeping tabs on Sporting CP star Goncalo Inacio following Joel Matip's exit at the end of this June.