Despite only recently signing a contract extension at Juventus, Daniele Rugani could leave Turin in the coming weeks. According to Calciomercato, Ajax and Al-Shabab have registered an interest in the Italian center-back.
Rugani joined Juventus in 2012 as one of the hottest defensive prospects in Italy. After spending a year at the youth academy, he made his senior debut in 2013. However, his career at the Allianz Stadium has never taken off.
Widely expected to replace legendary Juventus captain Giorgio Chiellini, Rugani has never lived up to the billing. He was a backup option for Gleison Bremer and Federico Gatti toward the end of Massimiliano Allegri’s tenure.
But new Juventus boss Thiago Motta is ready to cut Rugani loose. Deemed surplus to requirements, the versatile defender could halt his long-term association with the record-time Serie A champions this summer. He can choose between Ajax and Al-Shabab.
New Ajax manager Francesco Farioli keeps the Juventus outcast in high regard. Unfortunately, the Lancers cannot handle Rugani’s €4.5 million annual wages. On the other hand, the Saudi Pro League giants would increase the player’s salary to lure him to the desert.
Al-Shabab would reportedly hand Rugani a three-year contract worth €6m per season. That’s an offer the Juventus star would find hard to rebuff. Yet, that wouldn’t guarantee he would leave his homeland. Indeed, Atalanta could spoil the Saudis’ plans.
Gian Piero Gasperini would appreciate a player of Rugani’s quality and experience after steering La Dea back to the Champions League. Whether he can find an agreement with Juventus remains to be seen.
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Juve, make use of the interest!