Italian outlet CMW claim that Arsenal and Newcastle are still interested in signing Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli and could consider a move in the summer window – unless, the Italy star signs a new contract with the Old Lady soon.
Locatelli, 25, joined Juventus in the summer of 2021 after starring for Italy at Euro 2020 – played in 2021. It saw him join Juventus on a two-year loan deal from Sassuolo, with an obligation to buy under certain conditions. He is a Juve player.
Certainly, he will have met those conditions – given he has clocked up 67 games for Juve in the space of 18 months. He is a crucial player for Max Allegri, even more so with Weston McKennie leaving the Italian side to join Leeds United.
Juventus are keen to extend Locatelli’s deal. A contract that is currently worth £51,000 a week, according to CMW. But, if he does not sign a new deal – protracted to be until 2026 – then he could go. Arsenal and Newcastle are interested.
Arsenal and Newcastle interested in signing Juventus midfielder Locatelli
So, where is best for Locatelli? Juventus are going to struggle to qualify for European competition this season, after their points deduction. It means that he, and a number of other Juventus players, could be tempted to leave the club.
A move to England will certainly arouse his interest. The chance to play in a side that is likely to finish in the Champions League, next season. Arsenal sit top of the League, Newcastle in fourth. So, a move to Arsenal, or to Newcastle?
Well, Arsenal would give him more chance of winning trophies. But he would struggle to be first choice, especially with the Gunners signing Jorginho. Newcastle need midfielders and it might be that they can attract Locatelli to Tyneside.
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