Maurizio Arrivabene has hit out at the ‘ridiculous controversy’ around reported Tottenham transfer target Paulo Dybala’s contract negotiations with Juventus, speaking with Sky Italia.
Dybala now has just three-months remaining on his deal in Turin and is yet to agree to any possible extension. The Serie A side had intended to sit down with the Argentine to discuss his future at the club. But they opted to delay the meeting to focus on on-field topics first.
The Bianconeri are in a battle to qualify for next season’s Champions League via the Italian top-flight. Massimiliano Allegri’s side are fourth in the standings after 29 games. They must remain in the position, at worst, after exiting this term’s edition in the last 16 to Villarreal.
Juventus could also still win Serie A this season, despite their haphazard form at times this term. The record 36-time champions trail leaders AC Milan by seven points, Napoli by four and Inter by three. The Allianz Stadium outfit also hold a seven-point lead on Lazio in fifth.
Juventus chairman slams ‘ridiculous controversy’ around Tottenham target Dybala
Juventus chairman Arrivabene states the Turin natives’ decision to delay talks with Dybala over a new contract was simply to allow the Argentine and all other players due to be free agents this summer the chance to focus on helping Allegri accomplish their on-field goals.
But Juventus delaying contract talks angered Dybala, per Calciomercato, and risk losing the €32m (£27m) striker for free, with Tottenham interested in agreeing a transfer, per 90min. Spurs have also held talks with his representatives over a potential move to north London.
“This story is becoming a ridiculous controversy,” Arrivabene said. “It is a delicate moment for the whole team that requires the utmost attention. To avoid any kind of distraction, we have decided to postpone this appointment.
“I remember that we still have five renewals underway, not just one. There is no stance against any of the five.”
Juventus had agreed a new contract with Dybala in October worth €8m-a-season (£129k-a/w), per Corriere Della Sera. He would have also earned €1.5m (£1.25m) in bonuses in a deal running to 2026. But the Old Lady pulled the offer to renegotiate the possible terms.
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