West Ham have reportedly joined the race for Parma’s 18-year-old centre-back Giovanni Leoni, according to an update from Corriere dello Sport.

The Hammers are now among a growing group of clubs chasing the highly rated Italian talent, alongside Premier League rivals Liverpool and Tottenham, as well as several Serie A heavyweights.

The teenager has emerged as a rising star in Italy and is attracting widespread interest thanks to his composed performances at the back. West Ham’s entry into the picture suggests the club may be looking to invest in youth this summer as they plan for long-term additions to their defensive line.

Giovanni Leoni catching attention across Europe

Leoni has been turning heads in Italy with his ability to play confidently out from the back, drawing praise for his calmness in possession and tactical awareness. Despite being just 18, the centre-back has shown maturity beyond his years while featuring for Parma in Serie B.

Inter Milan have reportedly gone all-in on Leoni, making the defender their top summer target. According to FCInterNews via Corriere dello Sport, the club has adopted a “Leoni or nothing” strategy as they aim to reinforce their backline.

Part of Inter’s pursuit is believed to be linked to Leoni’s background with the club’s youth setup, where he previously worked with Cristian Chivu during his academy spell.

West Ham may take advantage of Inter’s financial limits

While Inter remain frontrunners in the race, their financial situation could complicate a potential move. Parma are looking to secure up to €40 million for Leoni, a fee that may prove difficult for Inter given their other transfer priorities, such as a reported interest in Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman. (It was also reported previously that West Ham was looking at Lookman as Kudus’ replacement).

That uncertainty opens the door for clubs like West Ham, who could look to capitalise if Inter are forced to pause or reduce their bidding. With aging defenders in their squad and question marks over several players’ futures, the Hammers appear ready to act if a window of opportunity appears.

Liverpool, Spurs, and West Ham all tracking Leoni

Alongside Italian interest, Premier League clubs are also circling. Liverpool and Tottenham have both been keeping tabs on Leoni, and West Ham’s addition to that list highlights how competitive the chase for his signature has become.

While no official move from West Ham has been confirmed, the club’s interest points to a longer-term view of securing a defensive anchor for the years ahead. Bringing in a player like Leoni would align with recent ambitions to blend experience with emerging talent.

AC Milan and Juventus monitoring developments

AC Milan and Juventus are also reportedly watching the situation closely, though neither club has matched Inter’s aggressive approach so far. Still, their involvement adds more weight to Leoni’s growing reputation.

With clubs in both England and Italy lining up, this summer could see a fierce battle for one of Europe’s brightest young defenders. West Ham’s move to insert themselves into the race may be early groundwork for a potential swoop, one that could signal a shift in strategy at the London Stadium.