​Leeds United are pressing ahead with plans to sign at least one new defender this summer after the departure of Pascal Struijk, with the Yorkshire club reportedly targeting a move for Mariano Troilo as part of their defensive overhaul. Strengthening the back line is a top priority for Leeds in this transfer window, alongside bringing in a first-choice goalkeeper, and Troilo has emerged as a viable option on their transfer shortlist.
Troilo has caught the eye in Serie A, making a notable impact with Parma by helping the club register five clean sheets in 21 appearances (18 starts). Across those fixtures, he won 63 percent of his aerial duels and 56 percent of his ground duels, underlining his capacity to defend effectively. Described as a player with “great potential,” the 23-year-old is viewed as a superb defensive prospect who aligns with Leeds United’s recruitment philosophy. He is young, well-rounded, and carries strong resale value, all of which make him an appealing long-term project for the club.
Standing at 6ft 4in, Troilo is widely regarded for his game-reading ability and the complete skill set required to become a world-class defender. However, it remains to be seen how aggressively Leeds will pursue his signature, given the competition and other priorities in this window. Ousmane Diomande remains Leeds’ top defensive target, but his move is complicated by a substantial release clause and interest from other clubs, including those in the Champions League, which could complicate a potential switch to Elland Road.
Leeds have also considered Switzerland’s Nico Elvedi as an alternative, though there are concerns about his age at 29 and a lack of resale value, even though the price tag is estimated around £9 million. Troilo represents a compelling alternative if Leeds are unable to secure Tarik Muharemovic, another defender on their radar who has been rated among Europe’s most promising young talents due to his impressive performances and substantial potential. The competition for Muharemovic’s signature is intense, with several clubs expressing interest, which could influence Leeds’ strategic choices in the transfer market.
If Leeds miss out on Muharemovic, focusing their attention on Troilo would make sense. The Parma defender mirrors many of the same attributes that Leeds value: youth, physical presence, technical ability, and substantial room for development. Securing Troilo would offer Leeds a smart, long-term investment with the potential to become a cornerstone of their defense as they look to rebuild after Struijk’s departure.
In summary, Leeds United’s defensive recruitment plan centers on adding a dynamic, future-facing centre-back who can grow with the squad. Troilo is viewed as a strong candidate who fits the club’s profile: young, physically capable, technically proficient, and with notable potential for progression. Securing him would provide a solid foundation for Leeds’ defensive future and contribute to a broader strategy aimed at building a competitive, resilient back line for the coming seasons.