From Bonny to Camarda, Ahanor to Giovanni Leoni – the Subject of a Bidding War Between Inter, Milan, and Juve: Sustainable Football Drives Long-Term Investments for Italian Clubs
This summer, filled with anticipation, sees a mix of veteran star power and a breath of fresh, young talent. While attention is drawn to experienced players like Modric joining Milan or De Bruyne signing with Napoli (who also acquire 20-year-old Marianucci and eye Dutch winger Lang), the general trend favors emerging prospects. Clubs like Bologna and Fiorentina are currently bucking this trend, with coaches Italiano and Pioli opting for seasoned stalwarts Ciro Immobile and Edin Dzeko, respectively, after years of developing youth. However, these appear to be isolated cases in a transfer market increasingly dominated by up-and-coming players.
Leoni: Bidding War Between Inter, Milan, and Juve
Indeed, the spotlight is firmly on Parma`s Giovanni Leoni, currently the subject of an intense bidding war primarily involving Inter and Milan, with Juventus close behind. This 18-year-old center-back, developed by Chivu, has played just 17 Serie A matches (scoring one goal). Yet, he is highly sought after, and Parma`s €40 million asking price hasn`t deterred anyone. This trend is further exemplified by Inter`s €25 million acquisition of French player Bonny, also from Parma, who is under 22. Deals for rising stars are clearly in vogue. Another pertinent example is Atalanta`s choice of Genoa`s Honest Ahanor to replace Ruggeri. Ahanor, only 17, has started a mere six games, yet his valuation has already reached €15 million.
Transfer Market: Increasing Focus on Under-23 Targets
It might seem surprising that such unproven players command such high prices. Last winter, Lecce sold Dorgu to Manchester United for over €30 million, but the Dane at least had a full season as a starter with 53 appearances and 5 goals under his belt. Now, however, clubs are content with talents who have only just appeared on the horizon, implying a significant risk. Nevertheless, ownership mentalities have evolved. Foreign funds, in particular, are influenced by an Anglo-Saxon culture that encourages substantial spending on U23 players, regardless of their actual experience. There are also recent cases of undervaluation, such as Juventus`s center-back Huijsen, who just moved to Real Madrid for €60 million after being dismissed by the Bianconeri for a mere €15 million last summer.
Of course, at Continassa, they`ve benefited from talents nurtured by their Next Gen project, a vital resource. A squad rejuvenation project cannot be implemented overnight, leading to intermediate steps and transitional deals. Then there are clubs like Lecce, accustomed to making a virtue of necessity. Three seasons ago, they had the youngest squad in the league. As their average age increased, director Corvino planned a new cycle, which explains the signing of rising star Francesco Camarda from Milan. At just 17, Camarda needs careful attention before his big leap. Not content, the Salento manager also signed 22-year-old French full-back Kouassi. Therefore, it wouldn`t be surprising to see more U23 signings in the coming weeks.
Como stands out in this regard. While Fàbregas is reportedly seeking experienced players like Alvaro Morata, the core of their reinforcement strategy is youth. The latest addition is Addal (19) from AZ Alkmaar, a significant investment, much like those for Croatian Baturina (22) and Spanish Jesus Rodriguez (19), who join already celebrated talents like Nico Paz, Perrone, and Diao – all barely adults. Cagliari is also moving in this direction, acquiring Riccio and Leonardi from Sampdoria. It`s noteworthy that Pisacane has been mandated to finally give playing time to Prati (21), who remained sidelined for too long under Nicola.
Genoa has similarly moved proactively, giving opportunities to talents from their academy and new discoveries. Beyond Ahanor, another former Juventus player, Koni De Winter, has captivated top clubs and is valued around €30 million. The 23-year-old Belgian international has the right experience to establish himself at the highest level, making his valuation seem more consistent and not just a speculative gamble. The next two months will reveal if this appetite for youth is merely a passing phenomenon. What`s certain is that in a more sustainable football landscape, investments must increasingly be long-term.
