The Italian Serie A boasts some of the most talented and valuable defenders in football, with each player on this list having a crucial role to play in the success of their respective teams as the 2024/2025 season begins.
Soccernet.football takes a look at the ten most valuable defenders in Italy’s top flight and their importance to the ambitions of their respective teams.
10. Strahinja Pavlović (€25m) – AC Milan
Pavlović has become one of the most promising young defenders in Serie A. The Serbian center-back joined the Rossoneri from Salzburg, bringing a combination of physicality and technical ability. Standing at 6ft4, Pavlović is an aerial threat in both boxes, while his composure on the ball will allow Milan build from the back. His value has steadily increased due to his performances both domestically and in European competitions. A reflection of his potential to develop into one of the top defenders in the league.
9. Perr Schuurs (€25m) – Torino
The Dutchman has been a key figure in the heart of the Granata’s defense since his arrival from Ajax. Schuurs combines defensive solidity with an ability to contribute offensively. His strong positioning and tactical awareness have been crucial for Torino, especially given the club’s aspirations to climb higher in Serie A.
8. Alessandro Buongiorno (€35m) – Napoli
Buongiorno has steadily risen in prominence within Serie A. The 25-year-old center-back has been a mainstay in Torino’s defense in the last few years. Buongiorno’s maturity beyond his years has seen him captaining the side on multiple occasions. His performances have also caught the eye of top clubs around Europe. The Italian was poached by Napoli earlier in the summer for his exact market value.
7. Fikayo Tomori (€40m) – AC Milan
Tomori’s move to AC Milan has been a resounding success. Since joining from Chelsea, the English defender has established himself as a pillar in the Rossoneri defense. Widely known for his speed, agility, and excellent reading of the game, Tomori has been instrumental for Milan. His ability to recover quickly and snuff out opposition attacks make him invaluable to Milan. His market value reflects his growing reputation as one of Serie A’s elite defenders.
6. Giorgio Scalvini (€45m) – Atalanta
Atalanta’s Scalvini is one of the brightest young talents in Italian football. Despite being just 20 years old, Scalvini displays remarkable composure and intelligence in defense, earning comparisons to some of Italy’s great defenders. His versatility allows him to play both as a center-back and a defensive midfielder, providing Gian Piero Gasperini with tactical flexibility. Scalvini’s performances have not gone unnoticed, with several top clubs monitoring his progress closely.
5. Federico Dimarco (€50m) – Inter Milan
The 26-year-old has been a revelation for Inter, particularly since the departure of key players in recent transfer windows. A dynamic left-back, Dimarco offers both defensive solidity and an attacking threat, with his crossing ability and set-piece expertise making him a valuable asset. He has been crucial in Simone Inzaghi’s system, providing width and depth on the left flank, and his versatility to play as a wing-back or even in a more advanced role increases his importance to the defending champions.
4. Benjamin Pavard (€50m) – Inter Milan
The French World Cup winner brings a wealth of experience and quality to Inter’s defense. Pavard is known for his tactical intelligence, ability to play both as a right-back and center-back, and his penchant for scoring important goals. His versatility and experience at the highest level of football make him a key figure in Inter’s ambitions both domestically and in Europe. Pavard’s market value reflects his status as one of the best defenders in Serie A.
3. Theo Hernandez (€60m) – AC Milan
The Frenchman is widely regarded as one of the best left-backs in the world, and his performances for the Rossoneri back the fact. Known for his blistering pace, dribbling ability, and attacking prowess, Hernandez has been a critical player for Milan, contributing both goals and assists from the left flank. His defensive capabilities have also improved significantly, making him a complete full-back.
2. Bremer (€60m) – Juventus
Bremer, who joined Juventus from Torino, has quickly established himself as one of the best defenders in Serie A. The Brazilian is known for his physical strength, excellent tackling and ability to read the game. These make him a crucial part of the Bianconeri backline. Bremer’s consistency and leadership at the back will be vital for Juventus, especially during this period of transition.
1. Alessandro Bastoni (€70m) – Inter Milan
Bastoni tops our list as the most valuable defender in Serie A. The Italy international has been a standout performer for Inter Milan in recent years. Bastoni’s ability to start attacks from the back and his composure under pressure make him an indispensable player for the Nerazzurri. His performances have also earned him a regular spot in the Italian national team. At 25, it’s fair to say that Bastoni is yet to even reach the peak of his powers. His market value reflects his reputation as one of the best defenders in world football.