Thomas Frank and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly eyeing up a move for highly-rated Italian centre-back Giovanni Leoni, with an 'official move' for the 18-year-old set to be on the cards.
Having finally achieved silverware in the form of the Europa League, Spurs have taken to the summer transfer window slowly, appearing in no rush to get their business done early. Having converted the loans of Mathys Tel and Kevin Danso into permanent deals, the north London side have further added Mohammed Kudus to their attacking ranks, alongside young defender Koto Takai from Japan.
Nearly adding Morgan Gibbs-White to their side, if not for legal issues arising during the process with Nottingham Forest, Frank's Spurs aren't letting that hold up hinder their plans for further incomings. Already possessing a young squad, another teenager could be on their way to Hotspur Way if reports are to be believed.
Tottenham Set to Make 'Official Move' For Leoni
Spurs set to continue their run of young defensive incomings
As per CaughtOffside, Tottenham Hotspur have set their sights on Giovanni Leoni of Parma. The Italian U19 international, who has been described as 'one of the most complete teenager centre-backs in Europe', has impressed the footballing world with his mix of technical attributes and defensive awareness.
With clubs aiming to buy young before any prices can be inflated, the report suggests that Parma, managed by Carlos Cuesta, formerly of Arsenal, will accept bids in the range of €35-40m (£30.5-35m).
The going rate for in-demand youngsters, Spurs will have to fend off interest from Newcastle, with Eddie Howe keeping tabs on the youngster. For the Magpies, defensive reinforcements are a must and CaughtOffside sources claim moves from both clubs can be expected soon.
Elsewhere, Leoni has garnered interest from fellow Italian clubs, with Juventus, AC Milan, Napoli, Bologna and Inter Milan all aware of the 18-year-old's progress, as well as Marseille in France, but no attempts at signing the youngster have started at any of these teams.
In what would be Tottenham's third official signing of the summer, Frank will be hoping the Lilywhites will dip back into the market and revisit a move for Gibbs-White, if not another attacking midfielder. An exciting link for Spurs fans, they will be hoping they can continue their streak of successful young signings with Leoni.
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