Liverpool are now rivalling Arsenal to seal a transfer for Juventus star Manuel Locatelli. The Reds believe the Italy star would strengthen Jurgen Klopp’s midfield with a summer switch.
That is according to CalcioMercatoWeb, which reports Locatelli is now on Liverpool’s radar as Klopp plans a major midfield overhaul. The Anfield natives have endured a troublesome season with their current engine room. So, the Reds now intend to refresh their entire core.
Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri would be extremely loath to see Locatelli leave Turin in the summer. The 25-year-old is an instrumental part of his side at the Allianz Stadium. But he may have to sacrifice some vital players if they fail to qualify for the Champions League.
Liverpool are also at risk of failing to qualify for the Champions League this term after their poor Premier League campaign. Yet Klopp admires what Locatelli would offer at Anfield, so may push for his transfer. But the Bianconeri would demand €35m (£31m) to let him move.
Locatelli is currently only on loan to Juventus from Sassuolo after arriving in an initial two-year deal in August 2021. The Bianconeri did not pay the Neroverdi a loan fee but must pay £21m through an obligation to buy this year. The deal also includes up to £11m in add-ons.
Liverpool must rival Arsenal to seal Manuel Locatelli’s transfer from Juventus
Liverpool must also rival Arsenal to seal a transfer with Juventus for Locatelli this summer. CalcioMercatoWeb also claimed recently that the Gunners and Newcastle United have the 24-cap star on their radars. But Allegri hopes to renew his €3m-a-year (£51k-a/w) contract.
Locatelli agreed to a contract running to 2026 as part of his transfer from Sassuolo in 2021. But Arsenal and Newcastle can eclipse the terms of his deal in Turin with bids at the end of the season. Further reports by CalcioMercatoWeb also add Juventus are not against a sale.
It also claims that Allianz Stadium chiefs would consider selling Locatelli to Arsenal in part exchange for Granit Xhaka. Juventus appreciate the Swiss currently occupying a key role in Mikel Arteta’s midfield. But they could listen to an offer from the Gunners if he is involved.
Locatelli has Arsenal, Newcastle and now Liverpool interested in his transfer after playing 29 games for Juventus so far this season. He has also started in 23 of his appearances but is yet to score or assist any goals. Yet Italy boss Roberto Mancini has long admired his talent.
“We called him up because he’s a great player,” Mancini once said, via quotes by the FIGC website. “He’s young and he’s got plenty of room for improvement. He’s got everything.”
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