Manchester United expressed late interest in signing Parma wonderkid Giovanni Leoni, according to The Times.
The Red Devils had a productive summer transfer window, spending more than £200 million on four recruits.
Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko have been signed to strengthen the offense, while Diego Leon should give depth at left wing-back.
United’s next priority is a defensive midfielder, but The Times reports that the club expressed late interest in signing Leoni, who is close to joining Liverpool.
The 18-year-old centre-back, who has cited Virgil van Dijk as an influence, is set to join Arne Slot’s side for £26 million this summer.
Leoni’s interest signals Manchester United are looking for a new center-back, following the departure of Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans earlier this summer. Following his retirement, he was named as the club’s Head of Loans and Pathways.
As a result, manager Ruben Amorim is likely to seek out another center defender for his side. Leoni would have been an excellent fit, as he is one of the top young players in his position.
Unfortunately, the Italian prodigy has orally decided to join bitter rivals Liverpool. It appears only a matter of time until the Merseyside club makes an official statement about a deal.
United’s late pursuit of Leoni indicates that a rising centre-back may be signed before the deadline. The emphasis could be on adding depth behind the back three rather than an established starter.
Rennes’ Jeremy Jacquet is also a superb centre defender. The 20-year-old has recently signed a new deal. It remains to be seen whether United will make an approach for him.
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