Speaking on the radio program `1 Football Club`, FIFA agent Claudio Anellucci shared his insights on various Serie A topics, including Juventus` transfer strategy and the situations at Lazio and Napoli.
Regarding the possibility of Juventus signing Victor Osimhen, especially given their apparent move for Jonathan David, Anellucci stated: “I don`t believe the potential signing of Jonathan David definitively closes the door on Osimhen. I think Juventus is still evaluating ways to bring him in, particularly after their underwhelming performance in the Club World Cup. From what we`ve seen, Dušan Vlahović`s time at Juve seems to be over; he barely featured in crucial matches, and the relationship appears completely fractured.”
Anellucci emphasized the need for more attacking options for Juventus, who will compete on multiple fronts next season. “They cannot rely on just one player, even someone as good as Kolo Muani [Note: Original text says Kolo Muani here, likely a mix-up, as the context is David/Osimhen/Vlahovic/Gonzalez]. I rate Jonathan David highly and have advocated for him to come to Italy, but the fact remains that Juventus needs at least two genuine center-forwards. David can play in different roles or behind the strikers, but it`s not enough. Someone like Gonzalez isn`t a Juventus player; he`s shown his limitations despite performing well at Fiorentina. Wearing the Juventus shirt carries weight, and you need important players for that. Therefore, in my opinion, Juve will still attempt to make a move for Osimhen.”
Turning to the situation at Lazio, following President Lotito`s comments about coach Sarri, Anellucci believes the tension wasn`t sudden, tied to well-known financial issues. He noted that Lazio`s 7th-place finish, while seemingly poor, was only three points off 4th, calling their season “exceptional, almost miraculous” considering the circumstances. Anellucci criticized Lotito for shifting blame to new coach Baroni and highlighted the president`s consistent discrepancy between his words and actions over twenty years. He found it “aberrant” that Lazio is hindered in the transfer market, especially after the club previously pushed for strict financial regulations.
Discussing Sevilla`s Juanlu Sánchez as a potential signing for Napoli, possibly as a deputy for Di Lorenzo or a wing-back, Anellucci sees him as a suitable fit for Antonio Conte`s squad rotation. He praised Sánchez`s quality and physicality, believing he can handle the pressure of playing for Napoli and would earn significant playtime if signed.
On the potential Serie A returns of Federico Bernardeschi and Lorenzo Insigne after terminating their contracts with Toronto FC, Anellucci expressed skepticism towards players returning from leagues like MLS or the Saudi League, describing them as “elephant graveyards” and “golden excursions” lacking intensity. While they could contribute if mentally prepared, he feels Bernardeschi is more likely to succeed than Insigne, whose high-level career he believes ended some years ago, citing Bernardeschi`s superior physical condition.
Asked if Insigne could feature for the new Italy national team under Gennaro Gattuso, Anellucci reiterated his lack of enthusiasm for the player, stating he never found him particularly impressive, even during Italy`s Euro win. He criticized Insigne`s field presence, decision-making, and predictable style, maintaining that Insigne “has never been a player who convinced” him.
Conversely, Anellucci feels Matteo Politano has been consistently underestimated. He praised Politano`s significant development and role in Napoli`s Scudetto win, noting his ability to impact games. Anellucci believes Politano deserves a place in the national team under Gattuso, highlighting his transformation at Napoli from a quiet arrival to a “pillar.” He cited Politano and Amir Rrahmani as examples of players who became constants in the Scudetto-winning side through hard work and dedication, proving that starting status can be earned.