Juventus, who have so far been the only frontrunners for Locatelli’s transfer, have seen negotiations stall with the Neroverdi as they struggle to meet the asking price of €40m. The 23-year-old talent, who impressed for the Azzurri during EURO 2020, has a transfer market value of €35m – according to transfermarkt.
Both clubs are at a loggerhead regarding the fee and the Bianconeri are known to be struggling with financial difficulties due to the coronavirus pandemic. However, Merih Demiral’s potential sale to Atalanta would offset any kind of shortcomings.
According to latest reports from Le10Sports (via Tuttomercatoweb) and Daily Mail, there is burgeoning interest for Locatelli from three other clubs – Paris Saint-Germain, Liverpool and Arsenal.
Sassuolo on the other hand, have almost secured the signing of Gremio playmaker Matheus Henrique. Diego Cerri, the technical director of the Brazilian club commented during a press conference on the Brazilian’s links with Sassuolo.
He said (via CalcioNews24): “The negotiations are at a very advanced stage. Matheus’ (departure) will be immediate, he will join the new team after the Olympics.”
Juventus have long been keen on signing Locatelli, having first approached Sassuolo with a loan offer plus €30m obligation to buy. His departure is expected in the coming weeks, even more so given the presence of new buyers in the transfer saga.