Armando Izzo to Arsenal? Serie A’s most combative defender thinks he’s Chiellini’s closest rival

Torino defender Armando Izzo has talked up his own ability amid speculation linking him with a move to the Premier League.

Izzo, who has four years remaining on his contract with Torino, is reportedly attracting interest from Arsenal, Everton and Manchester United.

Who is Armando Izzo? Five key things to know…

• Age: 27
• Club: Torino
• Position: Centre-back
• Career path so far: Napoli (2011-2012), Triestina (loan), Avellino (2012-2014), Genoa (2014-2018), Torino (2018-present)
• Key stat: Izzo won more duels (258) and made more interceptions (87) than any other defender in Serie A in 2018/19.

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The 27-year-old scored four goals in 37 league appearances last season, helping Torino to finish seventh in Serie A.

Izzo’s form earned him a first senior appearance for Italy, coming off the bench in a 6-0 victory over Liechtenstein in March.

Recently asked about rumours of a possible move to England, Izzo spoke confidently about his own level of quality.

“In the meantime I am happy, everyone likes to be courted,” he told Gazzetta dello Sport.

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“I have another four years on my contract with Torino, I want to arrive and show my worth. I don’t like it to be said simply that I am a good player, I am worth more.

“Italian defenders, apart from [Juventus centre-back Giorgio] Chiellini, I don’t see others stronger and more determined than I am.

“I am honoured to wear the Torino shirt and I will be committed until the last day I wear it.”

Fiorentina’s German Pezzella was the only Serie A defender to win more aerial duels (121)  than Izzo (118) during the 2018/19 season.

Izzo may have even more competition for the best defender in Serie A title next term with Juventus said to be lining up a move for Ajax starlet Matthijs de Ligt.