Talented Atalanta defender Giorgio Scalvini called the Premier League ‘the best there is’ and confirmed he’d like to play in England one day.
The 19-year-old centre back has emerged as one of the most promising Italian prospects in Serie A this season, growing into an important part of Gian Piero Gasperini’s squad in Bergamo.
In recent weeks, Scalvini has been increasingly linked to a number of top cubs across Europe, with teams like Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool all interested in the teenager. Inter and Juventus are also keen, but would be unable to compete in a possible bidding war.
Speaking to Corriere dello Sport, Scalvini first discussed what makes the Atalanta youth system so special.
“I think it is one of the best youth systems in Italy, if not the best, from a footballing point of view it is truly avant-garde, there are coaches, people, managers who from a physical, technical and tactical point of view take care of every aspect to perfection.
“But I think the most important concepts are those of behaviour and education, it’s something they care a lot about, in addition to making you a footballer Atalanta make you a man, this is really important.”
He gave his thoughts on the lack of trust in young players in Serie A.
“We’ve been talking about it for a long time, a lot of young people play here, all my teammates in the national Under-21 team have consistency between Serie A and Serie B, and in Italy there are talented players.
“It’s true that youngsters play less than abroad, but I believe that youngsters also have their opportunities here, and you have to be good at seizing them.
“Then there are teams like Atalanta with Gasperini, for example, he has a lot of faith in young players and is therefore able to launch more of them than other teams.”
The 19-year-old was asked if he prefers playing as a defender or midfielder.
“I feel like a defender, it’s the role I’ve always played. I also feel good in midfield, when you are a kid here at Atalanta, they try you in many roles. But if needed I can also play in midfield.”
He looked ahead to the upcoming Serie A clash between Atalanta and Milan.
“Milan are a great team, it’ll be a great match as it’ll be played in a full San Siro. We’re already analysing the opponent, it’ll be important to take care of every aspect, but above all it’ll be important to go in with the right nastiness and the right grit.”
The Atalanta talent was asked how he deals with the transfer market noise.
“Well, for the most part my friends send them (the rumours, ed.) to me, but I don’t give them that much weight. I don’t look at these things, I’m focused on Atalanta, I’m trying to do well here.”
Finally, Scalvini explained why he’d like to play in the Premier League one day.
“For me it’s the best league there is, for the intensity. Once in my career, I don’t even know when, I’d like to play there.”