EXCLUSIVE Romano: Juve back on Mkhitaryan bandwagon
“Mkhitaryan doesn’t have a mental problem," Raiola recently declared.
"It’s a tactical issue: to perform at their best, players need to be lined up at the correct position. Even someone like Messi would struggle as a fullback”.
Talk about a signal! The Bianconeri look set to take another plunge next summer, especially since they’re on excellent terms with Raiola. January is out of the question, as the 26-year-old is a non-EU player.
Juventus have been hot on Mkhitaryan’s heels for a while now: last winter, they inquired as to his price, only to be told he was worth €25-30 million, which was simply too much. After trying and failing to grab another Bundesliga star, Julian Draxler, the Bianconeri made a second attempt at swaying Borussia, though their offer of €18 million (with bonuses taking the deal up to 25) was flatly refused. Manager Thomas Tuchel was also against the Armenian leaving.
Speaking of leaving, it is increasingly apparent that Ezequiel Lavezzi is unwilling to remain in Paris past this summer. His agents have been in discussion with Juventus’ representative for over a month, with El Pocho’s wish for a three-year a deal (somethign we exclusively revealed) and €4 million a year a major roadblock. Juventus Director General Marotta and Sporting Director Fabio Paratici prefer a two-year contract, and a more reasonable salary.
The teams are set to meet again soon, though there is little doubt about Lavezzi’s desire to return to Italy. With Napoli his preferred destination – he’s had no contact with Aurelio De Laurentiis – another appetizing choice could be Inter. Having flatly refused any renewal offers from PSG, the Argentine is well regarded all over the continent. It’s up to a Serie A club to make a move before that appreciation can be reciprocated…
