Cristian Chivu is pushing Inter Milan to sign defender Giovanni Leoni, but Parma are in no hurry to sell the teenager.
This according to today’s print edition of Parma-based newspaper Gazzetta di Parma, via FCInter1908.
Inter have been seriously thinking about signing Giovanni Leoni for months.
In fact, the Nerazzurri had already tried to sign the teenager from Sampdoria last summer. But his outstanding form at Parma has truly solidified their interest.
Behind the scenes, Inter reportedly believe Leoni will be the future bedrock of the Italian national team’s defense.
Furthermore, centre-back is a priority position for Inter to reinforce. They must find a long-term heir to Francesco Acerbi and Stefan de Vrij in the centre of their back three.
And another major factor adding to Inter’s interest in Leoni is the arrival of Cristian Chivu as coach.
The Romanian was hugely impressed with Leoni during his time as Parma coach.
Furthermore, as a former defender himself, Chivu’s own perspective is important in how Inter scout players at the back.
As such, Inter want to bring Leoni in to satisfy Chivu.
However, doing so will not be easy. The price tag for Leoni is reportedly north of €40 million – and even at that fee, there is no guarantee that Parma will sell.
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