EXCLUSIVE Romano: Bonucci chose Juventus over Bayern back in 2010
Few, however, know that the Bundesliga giants were following the -year-old when he was still at Bari, something Fabrizio Romano exclusively reveals to the Serie A community in this column.
Though you'd never believe it now, defensive partner Andrea Ranocchia was seen by many as the more promising prospect, and had already been picked up by Inter before Juventus swooped for Bonucci.
According to Romano, the Bavarian side had set its eyes on Bonucci in April, seeing in his the talent, concentration and qualities that make a defender great.
Only problem is, Leo had the hots for Juventus, and had no doubt in his mind when they called him up, even if it meant being co-owned first with Bari, then with Genoa. Bonucci preferred to take his chances in Italy than risk moving to another country.
Now one of Europe's most sought-after defenders, he has two foreign moves to ponder: Juventus' Champions League trip to Munich next week, and Manchester City's interest, to name just one club.
The Bianconeri hope that he is there for the first one, and for many more games to come. Unless a truly insane sum is offered, they want to build around him for the future.
Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano), translated by @EdoDalmonte
