Angel Di Maria snubs Barcelona to join Juventus
Karan Tejwani
- 27 Jun 2022 12:59 BST
- 3 min read
Angel Di Maria is set to end speculation over his future by completing a move to Juventus, ending links with a move to Barcelona.
Di Maria is a free agent after ending a seven-year spell with Paris Saint-Germain this month, and is open to offers from some of Europe’s top clubs.
There has been interest in him from Juventus and Barcelona, with the latter looking for a free transfer to help their dire financial situation.
The Argentine was seemingly close to moving to Juventus at the start, but interest from Barcelona swayed his commitment as he considered their offer.
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Now, though, it seems like the former Real Madrid winger is intent on moving to the record Italian champions, and a move could be completed soon.
It’s believed that Juventus offered a deal worth €7m-per-season on a one-year contract, with an option for a second year, and Di Maria likes the idea that he could play back home in Argentina after this winter’s World Cup.
Juventus hoping for immediate success
Di Maria would be this summer’s second free transfer for Juventus, following the agreement with Paul Pogba, who left Manchester United last month as well following a six-year spell at the club.
The Bianconeri have had a difficult two years domestically, losing the title to Inter and Milan, and only qualifying for the Champions League as Serie A’s fourth-place side.
In Europe, as well, they’ve not gone beyond the Round of 16 since 2019, and that is something they’ll want to change in the coming years.
Despite having some fine youngsters on their squad including Federico Chiesa, Dusan Vlahovic and Matthijs de Ligt, Juventus are opting for older players to plug gaps in their squad in the hope of immediate success.
It’s uncertain whether there will be more incomings at Juventus, as they look to build a side capable of challenging for the title once again next season.
