Torino are maintaining their pursuit of Leicester City defender Ben Nelson despite the Championship club rejecting an opening bid for the 22-year-old centre-back. Negotiations between the Serie A side and the Foxes remain ongoing, with the player reportedly eager to secure a move to Italy.
The Italian club tabled a formal offer that was turned down by Leicester, though talks have continued between the parties. Nelson’s contract situation has intensified speculation over his future, with his current deal at the King Power Stadium set to expire at the end of the season.
Contract situation favours buyers
Leicester’s relegation to League One has significantly weakened their negotiating position. Facing the prospect of losing Nelson as a free agent next summer, the Midlands club are expected to eventually accept a deal to recoup value rather than risk losing the defender without compensation. Reports indicate the asking price stands at approximately €7 million.
With the transfer window progressing, the Foxes may be compelled to accept revised terms from Torino to avoid a scenario where the 22-year-old departs for nothing when his contract expires.
Torino prioritise ball-playing defenders
Torino sporting director Gianluca Petrachi has publicly confirmed the club’s urgent requirement for defensive reinforcements. While presenting new head coach Ignazio Abate, Petrachi outlined their recruitment priorities and acknowledged the challenges of securing suitable targets.
“The priority is a goalkeeper and two central defenders, that is where we are lacking,” Petrachi stated. “We’ve targeted our first choices and are waiting to see what happens there.”
He emphasised that transfers require complex negotiations beyond player consent. “At times, it doesn’t just depend on a player who wants to come, or an agent who already said yes, you need to negotiate,” he added. “Abate has asked for defenders who can play the ball, and they are not easy to find.”
The pursuit of Nelson aligns with Abate’s specific tactical demands for centre-backs capable of operating in a possession-based system. The former AC Milan defender took charge of Torino this summer and is implementing a squad rebuild focused on defensive quality.
Given Nelson’s enthusiasm for a Serie A switch and Leicester’s precarious contractual position, an improved bid from Torino could yet secure the defender’s signature before the window closes.