German Transfer Market Network reported that Inter Milan, Newcastle and Liverpool all want Parma defender Leoni.
Italy has produced many iconic defenders over the past few decades, and the latest emergence of Giovanni Leoni is known as the "New Cannavaro". The 18-year-old is still relatively unfamiliar with most fans, but the audience who closely monitored Serie A last season witnessed his rise. Leoni completed a breakthrough season at Parma and played 17 games after his debut in Serie A, showing remarkable potential.
Although the sample size is limited and needs to be carefully evaluated, the many traits that Leoni shows her heralds his hope of growing into a top central defender. The Italian youth international grew up under the guidance of Zivo last season, and the Romanian coach has replaced Inzaghi Jr. to take charge of Inter Milan this summer. Zivo is determined to reunite with his beloved disciple in Milan next season, but Inter Milan faces fierce competition from many Premier League clubs, and Barcelona is also paying close attention to the defender.
Born in Rome, Leoni moved to Chitadera when he was young and grew up in Padua's youth training system. The 1.95-meter defender made his professional debut in Serie C just a few months after he turned 16 in March 2023, and joined Sampdoria on loan in February 2024. Samp bought out for 1.5 million euros in June 2024, but Parma spent 4.8 million euros two months later to recruit him. Leoni performed well in her debut season, with market value soaring by 13.2 million to 18 million euros, and is currently the third most expensive U21 defender in Serie A.
Serie A expert Anilo Luciano believes that this young man who experienced a whirlwind growth in the early stage of his career will be the future of the Italian national team: "Leoni is regarded as one of the best new stars in Italian football and is destined to be the main force of the national team that continues the glory of the Italian defensive school. He has become a key recruitment target for Serie A and top European clubs, which has driven his valuation and market value to soar."
Despite its amazing potential, Leoni is still not a finished product. Luciano analyzed: "His athletic ability is highly respected and has extraordinary physical fitness. Tall but not Death agility, excellent coverage but still has room for improvement. The game reading ability stands out among peers, with a sense of position and prediction particularly prominent. Confrontation is tough and foul control is properly controlled. "
Regarding the direction of improvement, experts pointed out: "Parma did not have the best backcourt organization during Zivo's coaching period, and Leoni rarely undertakes the task of taking the ball. He has relevant potential, but must improve his ability to take the ball, which is a necessary skill for any young man who is determined to become a top modern defender."
Although Parma did not sell Leoni without urgent financial pressure, their asking price was difficult to scare off the suitors. If the transfer is made this summer, Parma will make considerable profits from last year's investment of 4.8 million euros. It is reported that Parma is asking for 40 million euros, but it can be reached through additional terms.
Earlier this summer, Inter Vice Chairman Sanetti had confirmed his interest in Leoni: "He is an attractive young player, see if he can sign."
However, Liverpool and Newcastle visited many times last season, the Reds need to strengthen the central defender this summer, while Newcastle is seeking similar traits defenders. Juventus and AC Milan are also paying close attention, and Barcelona also keep track of the Parma star.
source:24h bóng đá