Manuel Locatelli’s long linked transfer saga with Juventus finally came to an end few days ago when the 23-year-old sensation signed a two-year loan deal with the Bianconeri, with an obligation for purchase for €37.5m at the end of the contract term in June 2023.
One team that gave Juventus a run for their money is Arsenal, who reportedly offered more to Sassuolo for the Italy international. However, Locatelli had only one team in his sights as he finally chose Turin over London.
Speaking to La Gazzetta di Modena, Sassuolo CEO Giovanni Carnevali confirmed the player’s decision.
He said: “It’s not easy to understand for those who do not have the skills. This operation has brought a positive result and benefits to both clubs, even if certain technicalities are complicated to explain. Arsenal offered us 40 million, but Locatelli’s will was to go only to Juventus and we did everything to please him.”
The highly-rated central midfielder is yet to start for Juventus, having made his debut in a 2-2 draw against Udinese on the opening match day by coming on as a substitute in the 90th minute.