Granata eye young English centre-back
Torino are in negotiations with Leicester City for central defender Ben Nelson, according to reports from Italy.
Sky Sport Italia claims that the Serie A side have made contact with the Foxes over a potential deal for the 20-year-old, who is highly regarded at the King Power Stadium.
Nelson, a product of Leicester's academy, has been tipped for a bright future after impressing on loan at Oxford United in League One last season. His physical presence and composure on the ball have drawn comparisons to former Leicester defender Harry Maguire.
Torino, who finished 10th in Serie A last term, are keen to bolster their defensive options as they look to challenge for European places next season. The club has a track record of developing young talents, and Nelson fits the profile of a player they can mould into a top-level centre-back.
Nelson's rise through the Leicester ranks
Born in Leicester, Nelson joined the club's youth setup at the age of eight and progressed through the ranks, signing his first professional contract in 2021. He made his senior debut in an FA Cup tie in 2022 and later earned a League One loan move to Oxford, where he made 28 appearances and scored two goals.
His performances at the Kassam Stadium caught the eye of several clubs, but Torino have emerged as the frontrunners for his signature. Sky Sport Italia reports that negotiations are ongoing, with Leicester open to a permanent sale, though a loan with an option to buy could also be discussed.
With Bremer having departed for Juventus two years ago, Torino have been in the market for a long-term replacement. Nelson's aerial ability and reading of the game make him an attractive prospect for manager Gennaro Gattuso, who recently took over at the Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino.
What would Nelson bring to Torino?
Standing at 6'4", Nelson is a commanding presence in both boxes. He is comfortable playing out from the back, a trait valued in modern Italian football. His defensive stats at Oxford showed consistent improvement, with a 68% aerial duel win rate and 82% pass completion, according to Wyscout data.
Torino have relied on experienced defenders like Koffi Djidji and youth from their own academy, but adding Nelson would provide long-term depth and competition. His ability to play in a back three or four gives Gattuso tactical flexibility.
Key Takeaways
- Torino are in talks to sign Leicester City centre-back Ben Nelson, per Sky Sport Italia.
- The 20-year-old impressed on loan at Oxford United in the 2024/25 season.
- Leicester are open to a permanent sale, but a loan with an option to buy is also possible.
- Torino see Nelson as a long-term defensive prospect under new coach Gennaro Gattuso.
- The deal could be completed before pre-season begins in July.
Quick Facts
Name: Ben Nelson
Age: 20
Position: Centre-back
Current Club: Leicester City
Reported Interest: Torino
Potential Fee: Undisclosed
