Arsenal transfer news: Gunners 'in pole position' to beat Man United to Parma defender

Arsenal are allegedly leading the race to secure a deal for Parma defender Giovanni Leoni.

Having missed out on the Premier League title and the Champions League final in recent weeks, Mikel Arteta has been left with much to ponder regarding the club's activity in the transfer market.

With new sporting director Andrea Berta at the helm, there is expected to be plenty of incomings and outgoings, particularly in the final third with a new centre-forward at the top of the club's priorities.

Nevertheless, as per FootballTransfers, consideration is being given to adding a previously-unheralded defender to their ranks.

© Imago

Who is Giovanni Leoni?

The report suggests that Arsenal are attempting to negotiate a deal for Leoni after the impact that he has made in Serie A.

Still just 18 years of age, Leoni has already made 12 appearances for Sampdoria in Serie B before featuring on 17 occasions in this season's Italian top flight.

Leoni subsequently helped Parma finish in 16th place in the standings, only featuring in two defeats across his last nine outings.

With a contract in place until 2029, Leoni is tied to Parma in the long term, yet it appears that formal offers for his signature are inevitable.

Arsenal allegedly face competition from Manchester United and a number of Italian clubs, although it is stated that the Gunners are ahead of the Red Devils.

© Imago

More Italian interest

Arteta showing an interest in defenders plying their trade in Italy should come as no surprise with three having already arrived since he become Arsenal boss.

Takehiro Tomiyasu, Jakub Kiwior and Riccardo Calafiori have all signed in recent years, the former and latter from Bologna and Kiwior from Spezia.

Leoni, who can played at right-back or centre-back, would follow a similar trend, Arteta seemingly being left impressed with how he has handled the step up to Serie A.

As well as making an impact at Parma, Leoni has also already earned seven caps for Italy Under-19s.

Written by
Darren Plant