Argentina Olympic squad striker Giovanni Simeone has sealed a transfer to Serie A side Genoa after weeks of speculation, with the Italians confirming the deal via their website ahead of an official presentation on Friday.

The River Plate academy product was recently in Rio de Janeiro for the Olympics where he made three substitute appearances but the 21-year-old is already in Italy with his new teammates.

“Genoa Cricket and Football Club announces the signing of forward Giovanni Simeone from River Plate on a permanent basis,” a statement on Genoa’s website confirmed.

“The presentation to the media is set for tomorrow, Friday August 19, in the Press room at Villa Rostan.”

.@simeonegiovanni: la presentazione ai media è fissata domani, venerdì 19 agosto (ore 17.30), presso Villa Rostan. pic.twitter.com/F7mdfK0S2B

— Genoa CFC (@GenoaCFC) August 18, 2016

It is understood that Genoa have paid River Plate €3 million for the striker, who has been well known in Argentine football for many years in part as a result of his father, Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone but also because of his fine record for River and Argentina’s youth sides.

After struggling to break into the River first team, Simeone spent the last year out on loan with Banfield and impressed with the Taladro, scoring 12 goals in 29 matches.

The young striker explained his decision to leave River after this loan expired.

“I decided to go to Europe, as that is my dream. When I was told that Pescara were after me, I was enchanted. When they told me Genoa wanted me, I went crazy.

“After the loan spell at Banfield, I didn’t receive any calls from River for two weeks. Gallardo told me I’d be his sixth choice striker, so it really was not positive for me to remain at River.”