Angel Di Maria is taking his time before answering to Juventus, and from Turin they are starting to believe he is waiting for Barcelona to solve the issues that prevent them from adding new players before joining them. They have to conduct some sales beforehand.
As per La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Bianconeri and the Catalans have made the same offer. They are proposing €7M for one year, with the Old Lady attaching an option that is unlikely to be activated. The winger made it clear that he plans to return to Rosario Central after next season.
Juventus are hopeful Di Maria will not stay in a holding pattern for much longer and pick them even though his family considers moving to Barcelona logistically easier. On that front, the player and his wife may visit Turin before formalizing the decision. They are currently vacationing in Ibiza.
With David Neres officially joining Benfica and Roma slapping a hefty price tag on Nicolò Zaniolo, Domenico Berardi is the most realistic alternative to El Fideo, Sky informs. The Sassuolo star hinted that he is open to transferring in an interview with Chi (via Calciomercato).
“I like living in Modena. I have been here for 11 years. However, I have reached a point in my life where a change of scenery would make me suffer less thanks to my wife and son. I would feel at home anywhere next to them.”
Our Take on Juventus, Barcelona and Di Maria
If the report were true, it would not feel great to be somebody’s second choice, although that could quickly be washed away with some remarks. The timing indeed lends credence to such notion. The Argentine is great, but it may be better for the Bianconeri to consider more long-term options.