Leeds eyeing move for Parma centre-half Mariano Troilo

Leeds United need to sign at least one defender this summer after losing Pascal Struijk, and the Yorkshire team is eyeing a move for Mariano Troilo.Signing a centre-half is one of the priorities for L...

Signing a centre-half is one of the priorities for Leeds in the transfer window alongside a new goalkeeper, and Troilo has emerged as an option on their transfer shortlist. The Leeds target impressed in Serie A, where he helped Parma keep five clean sheets in 21 appearances (18 starts). Troilo won 63 percent of his aerial and 56% of his ground duels across those fixtures.

He is a player with ‘great potential‘. The 23-year-old is a fantastic defensive prospect and fits the profile Leeds want. He is young, complete and has resale value.

The 6ft4in star reads the game well and has all the tools to become a world-beater, but it remains to be seen how hard they’ll push for his signature. Leeds’ first-choice defensive signing is Ousmane Diomande, but the highly touted defender has a massive release clause. Also, with Champions League clubs showing interest, the English side might not be able to convince him about a move to Elland Road.

Switzerland’s Nico Elvedi has been considered, but Leeds are concerned that he is 29 and has no resale value, even though he will cost around £9 million. Troilo would be a terrific alternative if Leeds cannot secure a deal for Tarik Muharemovic, who is also on their radar and regarded as one of Europe’s best young defenders. The Bosnian has attracted interest from several clubs thanks to his impressive performances and huge potential, making competition for his signature fierce.

If Leeds miss out on Muharemovic, they should turn their attention fully towards Troilo. The Parma defender offers many of the same qualities – youth, physical presence, technical ability and significant room for development. Landing either would represent a smart long-term investment.