Latest news with #Juventus
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Liverpool Winger Rejects Jose Mourinho Interest in Favour of Serie A Move
Chiesa Makes Serie A Preference Clear as Liverpool Exit Looms Federico Chiesa's brief and unfulfilled spell at Liverpool appears to be nearing its conclusion. After just one season on Merseyside, the Italian winger seems poised for an exit, with strong suggestions he is seeking a permanent return to Italy. According to Calciomercato, 'Chiesa has now made his transfer preference clear if he is to leave Liverpool, which he's intending to do permanently rather than on loan.' Signed for £10 million from Juventus in August 2024, the 27-year-old was a calculated gamble for a Liverpool side navigating both transition and expectation under Arne Slot. Injuries, however, plagued his first year. He made just 14 appearances across all competitions, with only one Premier League start, according to Transfermarkt. With no place in the squad for Liverpool's pre-season tour of the Far East, his exclusion spoke volumes about his future. Serie A Return Beckons for Chiesa Chiesa's preference is understood to be a return to Serie A, where his stock remains high despite his misfortunes in England. Calciomercato reports that 'despite interest from the Saudi Pro League and Jose Mourinho's Fenerbahce, the 27-year-old is set to snub the ex-Manchester United manager in favour of a return to Serie A.' Photo IMAGO Clubs such as Atalanta, AS Roma, Napoli and AC Milan have been linked, with the latter two emerging as frontrunners due to Chiesa's previous relationships with Max Allegri and Antonio Conte. For a player seeking 'a club where he can return to prominence and benefit from a top-level salary,' the fit seems natural. Liverpool, according to the same report, are hopeful of recouping €15 million (£13 million), though a slightly lower fee may be accepted to facilitate a move before the window closes. Frustrated Opportunity at Anfield Chiesa's potential was never in doubt, but the timing of his Liverpool move and subsequent injury setbacks worked against him. Luis Diaz's imminent sale to Bayern Munich has thinned Liverpool's attacking depth, yet Chiesa still finds himself on the periphery. It is telling that he was not given the opportunity to travel with Slot's squad for pre-season. With Mohamed Salah expected to miss part of the campaign due to international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations, many fans had hoped this might be Chiesa's chance to stake a claim. But as things stand, it appears that chapter is already closing. Even with emerging talent such as Florian Wirtz, Harvey Elliott and Dominik Szoboszlai capable of stepping into advanced roles, the departure of another senior forward raises questions over squad depth. Should Liverpool also land a marquee forward like Alexander Isak, it may signal a broader reshuffle rather than a straight replacement. Photo: IMAGO Transfer That Never Took Off Chiesa's signing was seen as shrewd and low-risk. Yet, even in a system built on movement and intelligent pressing, he rarely had the opportunity to settle or contribute consistently. There were flashes, but no rhythm. One goal and minimal involvement simply did not reflect the player who lit up Euro 2020 and impressed so often in Serie A. The decision now rests with Liverpool. Hold on to a player who may still yet offer something in a long, demanding season? Or accept the realities of his situation and let him return to a league and style where he can thrive? For a club that has often benefitted from patience and second chances, letting Chiesa go now may feel premature. But equally, it is difficult to begrudge the player his wish for a fresh start elsewhere. Our View – Anfield Index Analysis For Liverpool supporters, the situation around Federico Chiesa is tinged with disappointment. There was genuine excitement when he arrived from Juventus, not only because of his technical quality but also for the energy and directness he brings. Injuries limited his impact, but the sense was always that with a full pre-season and clear run, he could be a useful option. Now, with Luis Diaz likely to leave, this would seem the perfect opportunity for Chiesa to push on and contribute. Especially with Salah heading to AFCON, the schedule over December and January will be intense. The idea that we might go into that stretch short on senior attackers is concerning. Still, if his heart is no longer in it, and if Arne Slot has already made a judgement on his suitability, then perhaps it is best to part ways now. Ideally, we would see him return to form in Italy, stay healthy, and remind everyone of the player he was not too long ago. A sale to Napoli or Milan feels logical, but hopefully, the club ensures it extracts fair value before shaking hands.
Ammon
12 hours ago
- Sport
- Ammon
Dortmund interested in re-signing Sancho
Ammon News - Borussia Dortmund are interested in re-signing Manchester United forward Jadon Sancho for a second time. The German side are one of a number of clubs, including Juventus, that are keen on the 25-year-old. Dortmund have explored the conditions of a deal for Sancho and Sky in Germany are reporting that internal discussions are taking place about bringing him back to the club. Sancho joined United from Dortmund in 2021 for £73m and returned there on loan in the second half of the 2023/24 season. Sancho impressed in that loan spell as Dortmund reached the Champions League final. Juventus have held talks with United and the player's representatives about signing Sancho. Dialogue remains open between all the parties involved, although it is understood Juve would need to make sales to fund a deal. Napoli were looking at Sancho earlier in this window too and are expected to move on to alternative winger targets after missing out on Dan Ndoye's signing to Nottingham Forest. Jack Grealish, Raheem Sterling and Federico Chiesa are the names currently under consideration, according to Sky in Italy. Clubs in Saudi Arabia are also keeping an eye on Sancho's situation. United prefer a permanent sale, but may consider another loan – provided a permanent option or obligation was attached.
Yahoo
14 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Report – Juventus Plan To Hijack Inter Milan Pursuit Of Parma Starlet In 2026
Juventus reportedly intend to beat Inter Milan to the signature of Parma youngster Giovanni Leoni next year. According to Tuttosport via FCInterNews, the Bianconeri cannot make a tangible proposal for the 18-year-old this summer. Indeed, strapped for cash, Juventus must postpone their pursuit of the prodigious defender until 2026. Meanwhile, Juve's plan to open talks for Giovanni Leoni next year aligns perfectly with Parma's intentions. The Crusaders are desperate to keep their rising star at Ennio Tardini for the 2025/26 season. Juventus Set to Rival Inter Milan for Giovanni Leoni UDINE, ITALY – MARCH 01: Giovanni Leoni of Parma reacts at the end of the Serie A match between Udinese and Parma at Stadio Friuli on March 01, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by) Juventus' ambition to sign Leoni threatens to undermine Inter's long-standing interest in the Italian starlet. Despite genuinely trying to reunite Leoni with Cristian Chivu, the Nerazzurri have no funds to make it happen. Indeed, everything hinges on player sales. After exhausting the budget, Inter will make one last purchase in the shape of Ademola Lookman. Therefore, all remaining incoming deals will depend entirely on outgoing transfers. With Juventus ready to enter the race in 2026, Inter would be wise to take concrete action this summer.
Yahoo
16 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Manchester United Bid €40m for Sporting Midfielder
Morten Hjulmand in Demand as Juventus and United Circle Sporting's Midfield General Hjulmand's Rapid Rise Morten Hjulmand's story is one of modern football's sharpest midfield ascents. From his days in Lecce to now captaining Sporting CP, the Dane has become a cornerstone for club and country. His leadership, ball recovery and tactical intelligence have not gone unnoticed, and now both Juventus and Manchester United are circling. According to CalcioMercato, Juventus are keen but 'have focused on former Lecce player Morten Hjulmand, now captain of Sporting CP, in midfield.' Yet, Juve must first solve the case of Douglas Luiz, who has grown 'increasingly distant' from the Bianconeri. His absence from training has drawn fines, and his exit could fund a midfield rebuild. Photo IMAGO High Price for Leadership Hjulmand's signature will not come cheaply. He has an €80 million release clause. Sporting are reportedly willing to reduce this to €50 million, but 'not beyond that.' That figure remains high for Juventus, who must sell before they buy. Crucially, the player himself is open to leaving, with his camp estimating a valuation of €30–40 million. 'They're looking for a way out to help a player who has also gained international experience in Lisbon, becoming a regular starter, even becoming captain and protected by that huge release clause.' United's Bold Bid Enter Manchester United. Former Sporting boss Ruben Amorim, now at Old Trafford, has reignited the flame. Amorim had 'put him at the center of the project' in Lisbon, and the midfielder thrived under his guidance. United have made their move. 'In recent days, the Red Devils have shown great interest in Hjulmand, submitting a €40 million offer.' It may be short of Sporting's demands, but it matches the valuation suggested by Hjulmand's representatives. The 1999-born midfielder 'would rush back to work in England with his former manager,' and that emotional pull may help tip the balance, despite the Portuguese club's hard stance. What Happens Next? Sporting know Hjulmand's value. The release clause gives them control, but the player's wishes and mounting interest could lead to negotiation. Juventus must offload before buying. United have already bid. The summer saga around Morten Hjulmand has just begun. Our View – EPL Index Excited Manchester United Fan Reaction This one has legs, and United fans have every reason to be excited. Bringing in Morten Hjulmand would mean securing a proper ball-winner with leadership credentials and experience in a tactically demanding system. The fact that he was nurtured under Amorim, who's now trying to rebuild United's spine, makes this move feel more than just strategic — it's personal. That €40 million bid feels shrewd. It shows intent without overpaying, especially when his entourage values him in the €30–40 million range. Hjulmand 'would rush back to work in England with his former manager,' and that speaks volumes. There's trust between player and coach, something United haven't had consistently in years. Of course, Sporting will dig in. They always do. But this feels like a deal that can get done if United push hard. Juventus lurking in the background is a threat, but they'll need sales first, and that gives United an edge. There's a growing belief among fans that Amorim's rebuild is finally taking shape. This move — if sealed — would be a clear signpost that the club is now signing players with purpose, not just prestige.
Daily Mirror
18 hours ago
- Sport
- Daily Mirror
'Man Utd wanted me but signed Rasmus Hojlund instead - now I could replace him'
Manchester United have been linked with a familiar striker target this summer, who the club overlooked in favour of signing Rasmus Hojlund in 2023 Manchester United have been linked with a fresh move for PSG star Randal Kolo Muani, having previously targeted the forward in 2023. The club ultimately opted to sign Rasmus Hojlund ahead of Kolo Muani that summer, but the France international looks to be available once again. United were enticed by Hojlund's long-term potential, having impressed during his time at Atalanta, resulting in an eye-catching £72million move to Old Trafford. After a slow start, the young Dane ended his debut season with 16 goals in all competitions, but he found the net on just 10 occasions last term. As United work on improving their frontline through the signings of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, Ruben Amorim's side have also been linked with a new number nine. Kolo Muani may have been snubbed in favour of Hojlund two years ago, but reports in Italy have claimed that United are targeting the PSG forward, who spent time on loan at Juventus last season. Gazzetta dello Sport has reported that United have entered the race to sign Kolo Muani. The France international completed an initial £65m (€75m) move to PSG in 2023 following a prolific spell at Eintracht Frankfurt, which had also caught United's attention. The 26-year-old has since struggled to cement his place at the French club but showed signs of his best form during his Juventus loan spell, scoring 10 goals in 22 games. Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Kolo Muani remains a top target for Juventus and discussions with PSG are ongoing, but United are also pursuing the forward. It is reported that United's interest in Kolo Munai, who is claimed to favour a return to Turin, has become more concrete since missing out on Viktor Gyokeres to Arsenal. Meanwhile, PSG are keen to complete a permanent sale for the forward, though Juventus are said to have proposed a £8.6m (€10m) loan fee ahead of a future £39m (€45m) deal. However, if United succeed in snapping up Juventus target Kolo Muani, it could have a knock-on effect for Hojlund. Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Kolo Muani heading to Old Trafford would lead Juventus to have an interest in signing Hojlund on loan. Hojlund does have Serie A experience from his sole season with Atalanta. The 22-year-old scored nine league goals for the Bergamo club before sealing his big-money move to United. The potential arrival of Kolo Muani would threaten Hojlund's place in the pecking order. He is already competing with Joshua Zirkzee and youngster Chido Obi for a starting spot, while new signings Cunha and Mbeumo could also be viewed as alternative centre-forwards. Kolo Muani is in need of a fresh start, as it recently emerged that he has been made to train with the youth team as PSG looks to offload the forward. If a move fails to materialise this summer, he faces the unenviable task of competing with PSG's Champions League-winning attack for game time. United have also been linked with moves for Aston Villa 's Ollie Watkins and Juventus forward Dusan Vlahovic. However, United boss Amorim recently played down the team's need for new signings. "In the moment we need to be careful when we sign a player,' Amorim explained. 'If I start the season with this squad I will be happy." He added: "You feel the bond between the players in the best teams. We remind ourself how special it is to be at the best club in the world. I really like to be in a group that is healthy. We are going to suffer but that feeling of bonding is really important. The spirit is positive."
