Giovanni Leoni chooses Inter Milan amid Premier League snub

Leoni turns down a move abroad as he waits for Inter Milan, aiming to stay in Italy and grow under Chivu’s guidance

Crucial hours lie ahead for Ademola Lookman, but Inter Milan is also pursuing another important transfer target: Giovanni Leoni, the top choice to strengthen their defense. 

The player's desire to wear the Nerazzurri shirt is already clear, as reported by Corriere dello Sport via Fcinter1908:

"Leoni has expressed his preference and priority for Inter Milan: this is a well-known fact. However, this cannot yet be seen as a final decision, since the Nerazzurri — currently focused on Lookman — do not yet have the financial resources to approach Parma. 

They are on the right path, though, hoping to raise the necessary funds through outgoing transfers."

Still, for those needing more proof of Leoni’s intent, one fact stands out: in recent days, the Emilia-based club rejected a €35 million (£29 million) offer from a Premier League side. 

And the rejection was not due to the amount — Parma has not set a fixed price yet — but rather because the defender from Rome wants to stay in Italy. 

His aim is to showcase himself for a place in the national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Inter Milan betting on Leoni for present, Not just future

Inter Milan has strengthened its position thanks to manager Chivu’s presence on the bench, offering Leoni the playing time he seeks to achieve his international goals. This means the investment wouldn't be for the future alone — Leoni is seen as a solution for the present.

But how much would that investment need to be? Considering the recent rejected offer, and given the player’s clear preference, Inter Milan would likely have to put forward the same €35 million (£29 million).

While Parma would prefer to retain Leoni for another season in hopes of selling him for a higher figure, resisting the player’s strong intent to leave would become quite difficult if Inter Milan meet that valuation.