Juventus have scheduled a second summit with Sassuolo to negotiate the transfer of Manuel Locatelli. The two sides laid the groundwork last week but have not examined the details in depth. The meeting could happen early not to distract him from the upcoming match versus Belgium.
The price tag could increase from the rumored €40M depending on the formula and the possible partial swaps. However, the Neroverdi are not keen on a two-year loan, the method used by Juventus to add Federico Chiesa last summer. They will at most concede a season-long temporary spell with an obligation to buy, Gianluca Di Marzio and Goal.com reported.
Sassuolo like Radu Dragusin the most among the youngsters offered by Juventus, but the two clubs differ on his evaluation. Furthermore, coach Massimiliano Allegri would not mind keeping him on the roster, La Gazzetta dello Sport reports. Felix Correia and Nicolò Fagioli are next in line, and the Bianconeri could take some Primavera players in return if the deal expanded.
Juventus are ready to do the deal for straight cash should further difficulties arise and delay the transfer. Locatelli has been their top priority for the midfield for over a year now. The player is on the same wavelength and has already agreed on his next contract. He has given the Bianconeri his priority over Borussia Dortmund and Arsenal, Alfredo Pedullà informed. Other top clubs could get in on the action if the Old Lady fails to reach an agreement in short order.