Juventus have opened initial talks to sign Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Leandro Paredes as a potential replacement for Arthur Melo with Arsenal intent on the Brazilian’s transfer.
That’s according to Calciomercato, who report the Bianconeri have held explaratory talks with PSG over a mid-season move. Juventus are still seeking a new midfield option before sanctioning Arthur’s exit, with the 25-year-old already saying yes to a transfer to Arsenal.
Juventus have so far struggled to sign Massimiliano Allegri a successor as the Serie A side are tight on finds. They can only afford to bring in a new player on loan and without any obligations to buy. They must also match Allegri’s stylistic demands to enter his plans.
The Turin hierarchy had explored a deal for Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek to join and free Arthur’s exit. But Thomas Tuchel has refused to grant a loan move, while Lyon are pricing Juventus out of Bruno Guimaraes. The Ligue 1 side want €45m-50m (£37.5m-42m).
So, Juventus have turned to Lyon’s rivals, Paris Saint-Germain, to start talks to sign Parades. The Argentine’s entourage have already indicated his possible availability, three-years after joining Les Parisiens from Zenit St Petersburg for £35m.
However, Paris Saint-Germain are yet to indicate they would be willing to loan Parades to Juventus without a purchase obligation. The 27-year-old has only featured 12 times so far this term under Mauricio Pochettino, starting seven games, across all competitions.
Arthur edging closer to Arsenal transfer as Juventus eye PSG’s Parades
Paris Saint-Germain warming to Juventus’ approach for Parades’ transfer would see Arthur edge closer to Arsenal, as well. The Gunners are waiting and willing to sign the Brazilian on loan, with the Evening Standard also reporting they would cover his £80k-a-week salary
Technical Director Edu is driving Arsenal’s pursuit of a transfer for Juventus’ Arthur, per the Express. But Allegri landing a successor is key to the Gunners’ securing a move. The Daily Mail note the Bianconeri are against a loan that is without a clause for a £35m switch.
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