Sportskeeda's list of 50 best players playing currently: 40-31

#35 Leonardo Bonucci

The underrated gem in the Azzurri crown, Leonardo Bonucci is more than capable of succeeding Giorgio Chiellini as the bedrock of Serie A’s finest defence.

Sandwiched between two Old Lady veterans in an unorthodox back three in Turin, Bonucci has grown in every aspect of his game, in particular boasting a strength in possession which enables him to venture into midfield when necessary.

The 29-year-old is always at the forefront of the action, as outlined by his average of 7 defensive actions per game last season, coupled with an average pass completion rate of 87%. He has learnt from some of the greatest in the game and has won six Serie A titles and three Italian Cups in his Turin-based tenure.

Although by no means a spring chicken, Bonucci still has time for further improvement given his position and his uncharacteristic versatility provides only more reason for him to be acknowledged as one of the most complete defenders in the game.