Atalanta do not plan to exercise their option to buy out Merih Demiral, who would return to Juventus. The Bergamaschi would have to spend €20M plus add-ons to redeem him, Goal informs.
The 24-year-old has been a regular in 2021/2022. He joined to replace Cristian Romero and logged 42 appearances. On the other hand, he started just once in the last six matches of the season. Gian Piero Gasperini preferred their other options over him down the stretch. The decision reportedly created friction between the Turk and the gaffer.
Atalanta were recently touted to replicate the same operation they did with the Argentinian prodigy but instead elected not to take the chance and ship him back to Juventus. According to Romeo Agresti, the Bianconeri do not intend to keep him either and will seek a buyer. Newcastle could target him if they missed out on Sven Botman. Fiorentina would have a hole to fill should Inter poach Nikola Milenkovic, TuttoSport informs.
Our Take on Atalanta Not Redeeming Demiral from Juventus
It is a slightly weird choice by La Dea, as the center-back had a decent season, and the fee is not exorbitant. They are probably confident they can replace him for lower figures. It is totally feasible considering the quality of their scouting. On the other hand, unless he desperately wants to be a starter, the Old Lady should consider keeping him on the roster and part ways with Daniele Rugani instead. But it probably depends on the offers they get for them, or the lack thereof.