Juventus are prepared to make an offer of €30 million plus 19-year-old centre-back Radu Dragusin to sign Manuel Locatelli from Sassuolo, reports Goal’s Romeo Agresti. Locatelli, a defensive midfielder, had an impressive season in Serie A last season and is currently playing for Italy at the Euros.
Juventus to Make Manuel Locatelli Move
Locatelli a Wanted Man
Locatelli looks set to be on the move this summer. He has impreesed some of Europe’s top clubs with his qualities on and off the ball. Locatelli is currently playing at the Euros. His performance against Switzerland earned rave reviews, with the midfielder scoring two fantastic goals. Sassuolo are unlikely to stand in his way as long as their demands are met.
The deal will take time. Locatelli is a key player for Italy, who have qualified for the Euro 2020 knockouts after three wins from three. He has stated in press conferences that he is willing to move. Sassuolo failed to qualify for any European competition this season. They just missed out on a Europa Conference League place, with Roma edging them to qualification.
Many Suitors for Midfield Star
A host of clubs have shown interest in the Sassuolo star. Premier League sides Manchester City, Chelsea and Manchester United, deposed Serie A champions Juventus and La Liga giants Real Madrid have the possibility of signing him. Reports of Juventus’ bid only confirm their intent. The 23-year old can pick any of the Champions League sides to play for next season.
Locatelli has addressed the speculation, saying he will make his decision after Italy’s Euro 2020 campaign ends. Sassuolo want €40 million upfront, and with a number of teams involved, they can play the waiting game now.
Dragusin May Sweeten the Deal
Radu Dragusin is a highly rated player at Juventus. The Romanian faces heavy competition for a place in the side. Veteran centre-backs Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini are still at the club. Young centre-backs Matthijs de Ligt and Merih Demiral have made an impact, while there are on-loan players such as Daniele Rugani coming back.
Juventus are therefore including the 19-year old in the hope it sweetens the deal for Sassuolo. Juventus have planned a move since April, and that seems to be coming to fruition now. They have accelerated the process, concerned that Locatelli’s Euros form will only drive up the price and the competition.
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