Bournemouth eye £12.6m Italy defender after Huijsen’s Real Madrid move | OneFootball

Coppola on the Radar: Bournemouth and Como Jostle for Verona Starlet

Rising Italian Talent Drawing Cross-Continental Eyes

In a summer where defenders are becoming hot property, Diego Coppola’s name is one climbing the transfer ladder with purpose. According to Football Insider, Bournemouth and Como are circling the 21-year-old Italy international, whose performances with Hellas Verona have turned heads across Europe.

“Coppola has attracted the interest of a number of clubs at home and abroad after an impressive campaign with Hellas Verona.” The numbers don’t lie. Thirty-four appearances, two goals, and a key role in keeping Verona six points clear of the drop zone in Serie A. For a club that finished 14th, that solidity was gold.

Photo: IMAGO

Coppola: The Defensive Answer?

Coppola’s rise has been both measured and meaningful. “The 21-year-old helped the Italian side secure survival in Serie A and won his first cap for the Azzurri in their recent World Cup qualifier against Norway.” That call-up cements his growing stature.

With Dean Huijsen gone to Real Madrid in a £50m move, Bournemouth have an urgent gap in their backline. “However, Bournemouth want to bring Coppola to England, with Andoni Iraola’s side in need of defensive reinforcements…” This interest is not just reactive, it is strategic.

Zabarnyi, Kerkez, and a Rebuilding Cherries

What makes Coppola’s potential move even more pivotal is the looming threat of further exits. PSG are reportedly interested in Illia Zabarnyi, while Milos Kerkez appears Liverpool-bound for around £45m. Iraola could be preparing for a major reshuffle. “The Cherries could start next season without three of their four main defenders from the 2024/25 campaign…”

Photo IMAGO

It’s a test of recruitment nous and succession planning. Fortunately, Bournemouth’s track record in recent windows has been quietly excellent.

Como’s Ambition Backed by Fabregas’ Vision

Not to be overlooked, newly-promoted Como are showing ambition under Cesc Fabregas. “Como ended their first season in the top-flight in 10th under the guidance of Cesc Fabregas…” and adding Coppola would underline their intent to avoid second-season syndrome.

Coppola’s Style: Grit Over Glamour

“Coppola’s no-nonsense, defensive style of play makes him more similar to the Ukrainian centre half, rather than Huijsen…” Bournemouth may be swapping elegance for tenacity, but in the Premier League, defensive steel is often what keeps a club from sliding backwards.

Coppola won’t be short of options this summer, but for both Bournemouth and Como, he may be the keystone in an ambitious rebuild.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Excited Bournemouth fans might just have reason to believe that this summer could shape another chapter of upward trajectory.

Dean Huijsen’s departure to Real Madrid was a body blow, and if PSG follow through with their pursuit of Illia Zabarnyi, it threatens to tear apart the Cherries’ defensive spine. Yet, Diego Coppola represents the kind of signing that smart clubs make — early, decisive, and full of potential.

At just 21, he has Serie A pedigree, a full international cap, and a reputation for grit that fits the Premier League like a glove. For £12.6m, it’s the kind of value that is rare in today’s overinflated market. Add in the fact that Milos Kerkez looks Liverpool-bound and it becomes clear why Coppola’s signing could be mission-critical.

Como’s emergence under Fabregas is exciting, but this feels like Bournemouth’s race to lose. With European spots in sight next season, especially after hitting 56 points last term, this sort of transfer speaks of ambition — and belief.

Still, fans will be wary. Lose Zabarnyi, Huijsen and Kerkez in one window, and Coppola might need to settle in fast — and lead even faster.