Exclusive: Why Juve refused to sell Cuadrado to AC Milan and Arsenal

Jordan Russell (@JordRuss96)
13 nov 2017

While many considered Juan Cuadrado’s exit an inevitability last summer, Juventus never really considered it. The Colombian was approached by several clubs offering him an escape route from Turin, after a disappointing performance in the Champions League final left some question marks hanging over his future. That said, coach Massimiliano Allegri blocked the possibility of him leaving with the full support of Beppe Marotta and Fabio Paratici.

AC Milan enquired about the former Chelsea winger’s availability a few times – he has the same agent as Leonardo Bonucci – but Juventus would not allow any talks to take place. Meanwhile other clubs continue to monitor his situation, not least Arsenal. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Bianconeri value him at well over €30 million, but the truth of the matter is that they would be loathed to sell him at all given he has become such a key player for them.

Cuadrado is well aware of the confidence and faith shown in him by Juventus staff, which is evident for all to see in his performances of late. His current deal is set to expire in 2020, and right now it is hard to foresee anything other than a renewal taking place before long, given the contentment on each side.