Gianluca Oddenino, a journalist for La Stampa, recently spoke on Radio Bianconera during the program Fuori di Juve. He commented on Juventus`s recent heavy defeat against Manchester City and offered insights into the club`s potential transfer market strategies. Here are his key statements:
Reflecting on the match against Manchester City, Oddenino described it as a significant test for Juventus to gauge their level against a stronger, more determined opponent. He felt the test did not go well, stating that even accounting for a potential loss, the game was dominated by one side that created more chances and could have scored more. He stressed the importance of quickly putting the game behind them and focusing on future challenges like facing Real Madrid.
Simultaneously, Oddenino emphasized the need for the club to look ahead, identify which players deserve to stay, and pinpoint areas for squad improvement. He believes this defeat can be a valuable lesson, but acknowledged that the journey is long and both the coaching staff, like Tudor, and the management must have taken note. He anticipates that multiple transfer windows will be necessary to fully address the team`s issues.
Turning to the transfer market, Oddenino discussed Jonathan David, who is expected to become a free agent from Lille shortly. He mentioned that an agreement on the player`s salary has been reached with him and his representatives. However, the hurdle is the signing bonus, which is substantial – effectively acting as a transfer fee for a free agent. Despite this, Oddenino believes the deal will likely be completed, stating he would be surprised if it fell through, as negotiations are well advanced. He added that interest from other clubs does not seem concrete.
Regarding Jadon Sancho, Oddenino labeled it a more complex operation due to interest from other teams and the high cost involved, necessitating player sales to finance the move. He views Sancho as a significant market opportunity and a player who can make a difference, improving the team`s quality. He stressed that making such moves is essential for Juventus to compete both in Italy and in Europe.
Oddenino also touched upon Timothy Weah and Hans Nicolussi Caviglia (referred to as Mangula/Mbangula in the original), highlighting the club`s need for sales by the June 30th deadline for balance sheet purposes. He noted that Juventus is aware these players are potentially easier to sell than others, citing Kostic as an example. Comments reportedly made by Weah`s agent suggest complications in a potential deal with Nottingham Forest.
Finally, concerning Dusan Vlahovic, Oddenino stated it is clear that he is not Juventus`s primary starting striker, and recent events demonstrate this. Furthermore, Vlahovic`s contract situation is a factor. The club has reportedly been trying to resolve the issue for a year because his salary is considered too high for Juventus and potentially for other interested parties. While cautioning that anything can happen in football, Oddenino`s view is that Vlahovic seems increasingly less central to Juventus`s future plans, and finding a new club for him appears to be quite challenging.