Newcastle Make Contact to Sign ‘One of Europe’s Best Young Defenders’

Newcastle have made an enquiry for Parma defender Giovanni Leoni, according to Corriere dello Sport.

The Magpies have reportedly identified the 19-year-old centre-back as a potential reinforcement for Eddie Howe’s backline and are among the Premier League and Serie A clubs keen on his arrival.

The likes of Liverpool, Tottenham, Inter Milan, AC Milan, and Juventus are also believed to be interested in Leoni, who emerged as ‘one of the best young defenders in Europe’ last season.

Parma, who paid just €7m to sign Leoni from Sampdoria last summer, are now demanding at least €40m for the young Italian defender this window.

Newcastle Eyeing Parma’s Giovanni Leoni

Among Premier League clubs keen on the 19-year-old

According to Corriere dello Sport, Premier League clubs, including Newcastle, face a difficult battle for Leoni’s signature this summer amid strong interest from Inter Milan.

The Nerazzurri are believed to have made the teenager their top target at the back and are looking to reunite him with former Parma head coach Cristian Chivu.

Leoni was a regular under the Romanian tactician at Parma last season and made 17 Serie A appearances in his debut campaign, scoring once in a 2–1 defeat to Cagliari.

He was rewarded with a new contract extension in February, keeping him at the Italian club until June 2029.

 

Newcastle are anticipating a busy final month of the summer transfer window, as Alexander Isak’s situation continues to develop.

The Sweden international has expressed his desire to depart before the window slams shut and has earmarked Liverpool as his priority destination, with an official approach from the Premier League winners now anticipated soon.

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