Juventus impressed by Parma starlet as price rises amid Inter and Premier League interest
Juventus directors were reportedly impressed by how Parma centre-back Giovanni Leoni managed to neutralise their strikers in Wednesday's 1-0 Serie A defeat, a key performance that helped the Ducali secure a massive win.
Parma had beaten strong competition from several Serie A clubs to sign the 18-year-old last season, paying €5m plus €3m in add-ons — an investment that is already proving to be well worth it.
FLORENCE, ITALY – APRIL 13: Giovanni Leoni in action against Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina during the Serie A match between Fiorentina and Parma at Stadio Artemio Franchi on April 13, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by)
Since Christian Chivu took charge, Leoni has established himself as a regular starter, delivering consistently strong performances and showing the ability to contain forwards like Moise Kean, Dusan Vlahovic, and Randal Kolo Muani.
Parma defender catches Juventus eye but price tag keeps rising
According to Calciomercato.com, Juventus had already been tracking the young defender, and his standout showing against the Bianconeri has only strengthened Cristiano Giuntoli's belief that Leoni could be the ideal profile to help rejuvenate the defence next summer.
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However, Parma are reportedly ready to increase the player's valuation, now asking for at least three times their initial investment. If the club secures Serie A survival and Leoni continues to impress in the final games of the season, even a €15m bid might not be enough to secure his services.
MONZA, ITALY – MARCH 15: Giovanni Leoni of Parma in action during the Serie A match between Monza and Parma at U-Power Stadium on March 15, 2025 in Monza, Italy. (Photo by)
Tuttosport adds that Inter are also keeping tabs on the Italian starlet, while his recent form has also attracted interest from several Premier League and La Liga clubs.
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