Lionel Messi’s blockbuster move to Paris Saint-Germain has handed Juventus’ hopes of landing Mauro Icardi a massive boost. According to Calciomercato, the Argentine striker is keen on departing Paris in the wake of his countryman’s arrival at the Parc des Princes.
Desperate to ensure regular first-team football, Icardi has reportedly reached out to Juventus to discuss a potential loan move to Serie A. The 28-year-old experienced a topsy-turvy 2020/21 campaign, often playing second fiddle to Moise Kean.
With Messi now in the mix, Icardi’s playing time in Paris could drop even further despite his blistering start to the new season. The ex-Inter striker was on the scoresheet in both PSG’s opening Ligue 1 fixtures, taking advantage of the absence of Messi and Neymar.
However, the Argentina international is not convinced about his first-team prospects in France and would like to return to Italy. Aware of Juventus’ long-term interest in acquiring his signature, Icardi has resumed contacts with the Allianz Stadium side.
Despite securing another season-long loan deal for Alvaro Morata, the Bianconeri are in the market for another top-class striker. The Spaniard blew hot and cold last season. So Massimiliano Allegri considers bringing in a new marksman to increase the firepower upfront.
Given Icardi’s pedigree in Serie A, he could be ideal support to Cristiano Ronaldo in the upcoming season. The Argentine clocked up 121 goals and 30 assists in Italy’s top-flight playing at Sampdoria and Inter.
Allegri needs all the help he can get to bolster Juventus’ hopes of reclaiming the Serie A title. An utterly disappointing 2020/21 season under Andrea Pirlo saw the Turin giants hand over the league crown to fierce rivals Inter.
Now, could Icardi be the man to upset his former employers and improve Juventus’ chances in the title race next term? PSG would certainly be willing to discuss the transfer to reduce their ballooning wage bill.