Serie A club Torino will likely demand around €40 million to part ways with 23-year-old Italian international Samuele Ricci, a target for Manchester City.
According to a report by Italian outlet Tutto Mercato Web, Samuele Ricci is the subject of interest from Manchester City. The Premier League champions are keen on reinforcing their midfield unit in the January transfer window after losing Rodri to a season-ending injury. Meanwhile, Torino will likely demand around €40 million to part ways with the 23-year-old midfielder.
Who is Samuele Ricci?
Samuele Ricci has established himself as one of the best young prospects in Serie A since joining Torino from Empoli. A native of Pontedera, he spent his formative years in Italy and graduated from the youth division at Empoli FC. However, he has risen in prominence during his spell with Torino.
The Granata initially signed him on loan in January 2022 before completing the permanent deal in the subsequent summer transfer window. The 23-year-old has turned out nearly 100 times thus far for the Serie A club while chipping in with three goals and six assists.
The Italian midfielder’s progress at Torino FC has helped him make his bow for the Azzurri, making four appearances thus far for his national side. Meanwhile, Samuele Ricci’s exploits for his club and country have not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several well-known clubs across Europe, especially in the Premier League. Manchester City will be one of his prospective suitors next year.
Premier League move on the horizon?
Manchester City’s interest in Samuele Ricci is understandable. The Premier League champions are scouring the market for a holding midfielder after losing Rodri to a long-term knee injury. With the Spanish international likely done for the 2024/25 season, Manchester City might sign a cover in the January transfer window.
So, several candidates, including Ederson, have emerged on Manchester City’s radar. However, Ricci is also a viable target for the Premier League outfit, with Torino’s asking price increasing with every passing week. The valuation has already gone past €30 million, with the Serie A outfit likely to sell him for €40 million.
While €40 million might be a sizeable valuation, Ricci has the potential to justify the investment. However, it will be interesting to see if Manchester City will cough up the required amount to sign the 23-year-old Italian international.