Tommaso Baldanzi

An emerging talent in Serie A, Italy youth international Tommaso Baldanzi has been making waves at Empoli since forcing his way into the club's starting XI in 2020. The 20-year-old attacking midfielder has represented Italy at every single youth level and currently plays for the under-21 side.

Linked with moves to AC Milan, Inter Milan, Juventus and Fiorentina in recent months, the 5 foot 7 diminutive creative man has appeared 35 times in the Italian domestic league, bagging five goals sof ar. The player came through the club's youth ranks at six-years-old, and worked all his way up to the first-team over the course of 12 years.  

The player operates in the number 10 role but is confident playing on the left flank or as a forward. The player is fast, has wonderful control of the ball and an excellent pass. He is primarily a creative midfielder and enjoys being involved in early phases of play. Baldanzi is a confidence player and at Empoli the club are creating an environment that helps youth players emerge. Baldanzi is left-footed but is also comfortable using his right, possesses a lot of vision and a decent shot at goal.

At this time, he is seen as one of the best youth players in Italy and is widely expected to go to the very top and represent Italy's full national team. Empoli currently sit in Serie A and Baldanzi has been a regular player since the 2022-23, and he has already caught the eye in the ongoing 2023-24 campaign.

During the summer months, Fiorentina were ready to smash their transfer record to sign the midfielder. It is understood that the Viola bid 35 million euros to bring the player to the club, which was instantly rejected by Empoli. 

It is a matter of time before Baldanzi will depart his boyhood club, and some of Europe's top clubs are already circling. It is widely expected that he will stay in Italy, and keep an eye out for this player who is sure to be a hot prospect for the future.