Arsenal Ahead of Man United in the Race to Sign Serie A Defender | OneFootball

Arsenal Target Giovanni Leoni in Bid to Secure Future of Defence

Arsenal’s blueprint for long-term squad sustainability continues to take shape. With a strong foundation already in place, the Gunners are now moving assertively in the youth market, and their sights have turned to Giovanni Leoni, Parma’s 18-year-old centre-back who is rapidly emerging as one of Europe’s most exciting defensive prospects.

According to a report from FootballTransfers, “Man Utd continue to monitor the situation, but Arsenal’s swift move could prove decisive in securing one of Europe’s most promising defensive prospects.” It’s a telling phrase that reflects a key aspect of Arsenal’s current recruitment strategy: move fast, move smart, and stay ahead of the competition.

Photo: IMAGO

Rising Star in Italy

Leoni’s rise has been nothing short of impressive. Making his professional debut with Padova aged just 16, the defender has since climbed the Italian football ladder with striking composure. His spell under Andrea Pirlo at Sampdoria, followed by a breakout campaign with Parma, has established him as a serious talent.

His standout moment came in Parma’s 1-0 victory over Juventus, where he reportedly left scouts from Turin visibly impressed. Now, after 17 Serie A appearances, a goal, and international experience with Italy’s U18 and U19 teams, Leoni is attracting attention from across the continent.

Arsenal’s Defensive Vision

Arsenal’s move for Leoni is not without context. As reported by FootballTransfers, the club had previously “shown interest in Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen prior to his move to Real Madrid,” and also enquired about Valencia’s Yarek Gasiorowski. However, it is Leoni who has now emerged as a top defensive target for the North London club.

Sporting director Andrea Berta is leading the charge, underlining just how serious the club is about securing the Italian’s signature. Leoni’s profile — calm under pressure, strong in the air, positionally aware — aligns perfectly with Mikel Arteta’s evolving system, one that favours defenders who can progress the ball and manage transitions.

Photo: IMAGO

Competition Across Europe

Arsenal are not alone in their admiration. According to Tuttosport, “Juventus and Inter” are also monitoring the situation, with both clubs recognising Leoni’s maturity and potential. Yet it’s Arsenal’s early and proactive approach that could prove the difference.

With Manchester United still observing from the sidelines, Arsenal’s ability to present a clear pathway — one that includes top-level coaching, Europa League football, and a proven track record of developing young stars — may sway the decision in their favour.

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For Arsenal, this feels like another astute piece of forward planning. Giovanni Leoni might not be a household name yet, but the signs are all there. Young, composed, left-footed, with experience in Italy’s top flight — this is the kind of player recruitment that smart clubs make before the price tag doubles.

The club has already shown its ability to identify elite youth talent early. William Saliba was one, Jakub Kiwior another. Leoni could be the next. And in a summer where many fans are focusing on marquee signings, it’s refreshing to see the club also building depth with the future in mind.

At just 18, Leoni wouldn’t be expected to start immediately. But this is about succession. Gabriel Magalhães and Ben White have been immense, but long seasons and European football demand options. Leoni would be one for the next phase — a player to grow with the squad and eventually take over.

If Arsenal can finalise this deal early, it shows once again that they are thinking years ahead, not just weeks. For a club trying to stay at the top, that matters more than ever.