Douglas Costa has claimed that he would like to return to Juventus after leaving LA Galaxy as a free agent. He spent one full season after a short loan spell, and is now seeking new opportunities to play both in Turin as well as in Saudi Arabia.
A final decision over his future has not been made yet, but he could sign for a club again in the upcoming January transfer window.
Douglas Costa announces desire to play for Juventus again
“I would like to return to Juventus, it’s my dream.
Via Fabrizio Romano’s Twitter
“I want to be a soldier at (Max) Allegri’s disposition and feel the love of the Juventus fans again,” Douglas Costa recently told TuttoJuve.
“My agent is in contact with all the interested clubs, including Juve and Saudi Arabia.”
Whether Juventus will sign the 33-year-old again is another story altogether. Max Allegri has not been using traditional wingers in his system, with Federico Chiesa being played as a forward alongside Vlahovic, Milik or Moise Kean. With Juan Cuadrado manning the wide position, Costa could be deemed unnecessary at this stage.
Moreover, his injury record could also deter Juventus from re-signing him, which hampered his career significantly. Costa scored only 10 goals in 103 appearances for Juventus across three seasons, and it remains to be seen where he ends up going at this stage of his career.
Jadon Sancho is increasingly likely to leave Manchester United in the January transfer window, as per renowned transfer insider Fabrizio Romano. According to the Italian, the relationship between Manchester United and Sancho is 90% over, with the internal feeling being that the player needs to find another club when the transfer window opens again.
The player has not featured for United since August 26, and remains sidelined from training with the rest of the team. Juventus, Borussia Dortmund, Barcelona and clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia have all been linked, but a transfer did not materialise with the window still open a few weeks into September.
Jadon Sancho set to leave Manchester United in January
The former England international is unlikely to ever play for United again after his public falling out with Erik Ten Hag. After he was dropped for the game against Arsenal, he challenged Erik Ten Hag’s claims that he was not training up to the mark.
The winger will likely be loaned out during the January transfer window, since sealing a permanent transfer window for £50-55 million in the middle of the season will be challenging. This far, Juventus are leading the chase for the player and could sign him on a loan deal with the option to buy later on.
Jadon Sancho was asked to make a public apology to Ten Hag to be let back into the first team. But, he has not done the same and is likely to move on to revive his career.
Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli has been hit with a seven month suspension from football, after he was found guilty of betting rule breaches by authorities in Turin. The midfielder has grown into a regular starter under Max Allegri, and will now miss the majority of the 23/24 season due to his misconduct off the field.
Betting on illegal platforms has been cited as one of the main offences that the footballer committed, as per the Turin Prosecutor’s Office. Alongside Fagioli, Italy international midfielders Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Zaniolo are also under investigation with the verdict for the two national team players yet to be delivered.
Nicolo Fagioli suspended from Juventus first team after betting involvement
Via Twitter
Nicolo Fagioli has also been fined €12,500 in addition to the lengthy ban that he currently faces. The 22-year-old has also been instructed to participate in treatment sessions to help him overcome his gambling problem.
A similar verdict was passed for Brentford striker Ivan Toney, after he admitted to having a gambling addiction. More recently, Nottingham Forest defender Harry Toffolo has also been hit with a suspended ban from football in response to betting rule breaches.
Fagioli could have faced a ban of up to three years due to the offence, but admitting his problems with gambling reduced the final sentence. He has made six appearances in Serie A for the Bianconeri this season, providing only one assist.
And due to the length of the ban, we might not see him in a black and white striped shirt again before the start of the 24/25 season.
In a surprising turn of events, Cristiano Ronaldo, the footballing legend, is gearing up for a legal battle against his former club, Juventus. The issue at hand revolves around a staggering €20 million in unpaid wages dating back to the tumultuous times of the Covid-19 pandemic. This unexpected legal confrontation has sent shockwaves through the footballing world, raising questions about contractual obligations, financial stability, and the implications for other players.
To understand the root of this dispute, we need to rewind to the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic. The virus hit Europe with a vengeance, and Italy, home to Juventus, was one of the nations severely affected. As the pandemic wreaked havoc, Juventus, like many other clubs, faced severe financial constraints. In response, they halted all payments, including player wages, with the promise to catch up once the storm had passed.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Move to Juventus and the Unfinished Contract
Cristiano Ronaldo’s journey to Juventus began in 2018 when he left Real Madrid, signing a four-year contract with the Serie A giants. However, his tenure with the Italian club was shorter than anticipated, as he returned to Manchester United in 2021, not completing his Juventus contract. The abrupt change in clubs marked a significant moment in Ronaldo’s career, as he embarked on a new chapter with the Red Devils.
Cristiano Ronaldo for Juventus, Image via Twitter
Ronaldo’s Legal Action and Leandro Bonucci’s Involvement
Now, fast forward to the present. Cristiano Ronaldo has decided to take legal action against Juventus for the unpaid wages from his final season in Serie A. His determination to seek what he is rightfully owed has created a stir, not only among fans but also within the footballing community. Interestingly, Ronaldo isn’t alone in his quest for justice. Former Juventus star Leandro Bonucci is also contemplating legal action against the club, albeit for a separate matter. The collective action of these prominent players adds an intriguing layer to this unfolding drama.
What’s Next for Juventus?
As the news of legal action from Ronaldo and Bonucci reverberates across the footballing world, all eyes are on Juventus. The club’s response to these allegations and their willingness to address the financial obligations from the pandemic era will undoubtedly shape their reputation and financial stability. Will they resolve these issues amicably or choose to engage in a protracted legal battle? Only time will tell.
Amidst the legal turmoil, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to shine on the football field. His recent performances with Al-Nassr have been nothing short of spectacular. The 38-year-old forward has already scored six goals and provided four assists in the first four games of the season. While his legal battle with Juventus unfolds, Ronaldo remains focused and dedicated to his craft.
Ronaldo’s Investment in Padel: A Bright Spot
Beyond the football pitch, Cristiano Ronaldo is making headlines for a different reason. He is set to invest €5 million to boost the sport of padel. This investment will lead to the construction of a state-of-the-art padel complex in Portugal, known as the ‘City of Padel.’ It’s a testament to Ronaldo’s commitment to sports beyond football and his desire to contribute to the growth of other sporting disciplines.
Cristiano Ronaldo for Juventus, Image via Twitter
Paul Pogba’s Doping Controversy: Another Juventus-Related Issue
As if the Ronaldo-Juventus legal battle wasn’t enough, Juventus finds itself embroiled in yet another controversy. Paul Pogba, the talented midfielder, has been provisionally suspended after a drugs test revealed elevated levels of testosterone in his system. This development has cast a shadow over Pogba’s career and raises questions about anti-doping measures in football.
Paul Pogba of Juventus, Image via Twitter
Turmoil and Turbulence in the World of Juventus
In the world of Juventus, turmoil and turbulence seem to be the order of the day. The legal showdown with Cristiano Ronaldo, the potential legal action by Leandro Bonucci, and the doping controversy surrounding Paul Pogba have all converged to create a challenging period for the club. How Juventus navigates these troubled waters will undoubtedly shape the club’s future and reputation in the world of football. As fans and observers, we can only wait and watch as this gripping saga continues to unfold.
Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has been suspended with immediate effect after he tested positive for testosterone following the game against Udinese on August 20. The midfielder did not play, and was an unused substitute on the bench.
The club has acknowledged the drug test findings, and has also released a statement in response to the situation. They have received official confirmation regarding the drug test, and are evaluating the situation before taking further steps.
Paul Pogba risks 4-year ban after elevated testosterone levels in drug test
Paul Pogba (Image Credit: Twitter)
“We are waiting for the results of the counter-analysis and cannot say anything until then,” Pogba’s agent Rafaela Pimenta said in a statement reported by Italian media.
“The only certain thing is that Paul Pogba never intended to break the rules.”
The midfielder’s return to Juventus has been nothing short of a nightmare. He left Manchester United as a free agent and returned to Turin last summer, but was struggling with injuries which barely allowed him to play. He has returned to the squad this summer, but hasn’t started any games.
He only made two brief substitute appearances against Bologna and Empoli. Some sources report that the player considered retirement in light of the recent struggles that he is having to undergo.
A counter test will be carried out before it can be said that Pogba failed the drug test. And until then, it can’t be determined whether any punishment will be given to him.
Leonardo Bonucci has accepted a transfer to Union Berlin, with the Champions League debutants set to sign the Juventus icon. Bonucci was ruled out of the project by new sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli after his arrival from Napoli.
The Italian was set to retire in the summer of 2024 when his contract with the Bianconeri expired. But, the club decided to move him on immediately and he will now be playing with one of the biggest underdogs in all of Europe.
Leonardo Bonucci joins Union Berlin until 2024 from Juventus
(Alessandro Di Marco/ANSA via AP)
The centre-back will be playing for Berlin until June 2024, with the option to extend his contract for one more season beyond that. In spite of losing his pace, he has a wealth of experience at the top level and could be a leader in the locker room at the top level.
Last season, the veteran made 26 appearances across all competitions and racked up 1517 minutes while also scoring two goals. And now, he will be pursuing a new challenge in Germany, which is his first move away from Italy in his iconic career.
Leonardo Bonucci helped Italy win the 2020 Euros alongside long-time defensive partner Giorgio Chiellini. He has earned 121 caps for the Azzurri and has scored eight goals over the course of his career.
Union Berlin have been drawn in Group C with Real Madrid, Napoli and Braga. They are not expected to progress to the knockout stages ahead of Madrid and Napoli, but are expected to finish third and still be in European football through the Europa League.
Vlahovic-Lukaku swap deal update: Rumours about a swap deal for Romelu Lukaku and Dusan Vlahovic between Chelsea and Juventus are now becoming more prominent. The two clubs have discussed the possibility of a Vlahovic-Lukaku deal, but Juventus want €40 million on top of receiving Lukaku as part of the exchange.
The Belgian was linked with a move to Turin after reports that he had discussed a contract with the Bianconeri after the Champions League final. Inter Milan had made an offer worth €40 million to re-sign him permanently from Chelsea. But, the club withdrew their offer upon learning that he had been talking to Juventus while ignoring their calls.
It has now been revealed that Lukaku has agreed a three-year contract with Juventus verbally. But, the deal depends on whether Vlahovic will be sold, and whether Chelsea will engage in the transfer at all.
Vlahovic-Lukaku swap deal update: No concrete offers yet
Via Ben Jacobs’ Twitter // Vlahovic-Lukaku swap deal
“I’m happy with the players we have but impossible-to-refuse bids will be evaluated due to the financial situation,” Juventus manager Max Allegri recently said in response to the rumours involving the two strikers.
“I will adapt to the club’s choice, as always.”
Vlahovic made the move to Juventus a couple of seasons ago from Fiorentina. But, he hasn’t been able to recapture his form with the Bianconeri, a part of which is due to the tactics used by Allegri.
Image Credit: Twitter
Chelsea initially rejected the offer to sign Vlahovic from Juventus. They have signed Nicolas Jackson from Villarreal to alleviate their striker issues. And while also having Christopher Nkunku and Armando Broja at the club, Vlahovic could be surplus to requirements.
Now, with Juventus’ rather ridiculous proposal asking for €40 million on top of Lukaku, Chelsea might pull out of negotiations altogether. But, no final decision has been made about the deal as of yet.
Gianluigi Buffon has decided to retire from professional football at the age of 45, with an official announcement confirming his decision expected imminently. The iconic goalkeeper spent the last season with his boyhood club Parma, to whom he had returned after a prolonged spell with Juventus.
He was expected to continue with the club until 2024, but recurring injuries prevented him from carrying on. In addition, Parma’s failure to secure promotion from Serie B could have also played a part in the decision of the veteran goalkeeper.
There were offers from Al Hilal for the player to have a final massive payday in Saudi Arabia. But, he has made up his mind and will make his decision official very soon.
Gianluigi Buffon to retire from football at 45
It seems that time has finally caught up to the legend, with many muscle injuries bothering him during the past season. He spent three months out with a hamstring injury, among other minor ailments.
Buffon is most fondly remembered for his spell with Juventus. He made the move from Parma to Juventus as the most expensive goalkeeper of all-time, a transfer which was worth €52 million in 2001.
After spending 17 years with Juventus, he made the move to PSG as a free agent. But, returned to Turin only a year later and spent two more years with the Bianconeri before moving back to Parma in 2021.
Gianluigi Buffon won the 2006 World Cup with Italy and lifted ten Serie A titles with Juventus. He also won the Coppa Italia six times and the Supercoppa seven times. And now, he will be calling time on his career as one of the best goalkeepers of all-time.
Juventus have been banned from playing the Europa Conference League this season, due to Financial Fair Play breaches. This is in spite of their seventh placed finish in the Serie A last season, which saw them make the third tier of Europe.
Fiorentina have automatically been granted qualification into the tournament replacing Juventus, having appeared in the finals this past season.
Juventus will not play Europa Conference League 23/24 due to FFP breaches
Via @alex_brotherton
The Bianconeri were handed an initial 15-point deduction this past season, which was overturned. But prior to the end of the season, they were handed another 10-point deduction which made them finish in seventh place, well outside the top four.
Now, they will be without European football for the season after UEFA’s investigation into their accounts revealed problematic findings. The club has also been asked to pay a fine for their wrongdoings. €10 million has to be paid right away, with another €10 million payable only if they fail to comply in the subsequent years.
Over the last season, their entire board has resigned and they have had to endure a tumultuous time on the pitch as well. After appointing Cristiano Giuntoli as their new sporting director, they have quickly pivoted towards a new sporting project. And it now remains to be seen how they cope financially with no European football, and whether it actually boosts their performances in Serie A.
Monaco have submitted an opening bid to sign Denis Zakaria from Juventus, amidst interest from West Ham United. The player has returned to Turin after a loan spell with Chelsea for 22/23. The Swiss international featured sporadically for the Blues, and has been ruled out of the Juventus project upon his return.
Several clubs are now interested in signing him and he will assess his options before making a decision. The Bianconeri are holding out for a transfer fee of more than €20 million to let go of the player. And while Monaco’s bid value is unknown, it seems unlikely that Juve will let go of him on a sharp bargain.
Monaco submit opening Denis Zakaria offer to Juventus
Via @ConnCFC on Twitter
While Zakaria has not been able to find form at Juventus, or at Chelsea, there is hope that he could turn things around if he goes to Monaco. The reason behind this is that they have recently appointed Adi Hutter as their new manager.
Hutter was previously the manager of Borussia Monchengladbach, and has worked with Denis Zakaria in the past. And that is where the midfielder found his best form before deciding to move on at the end of his contract. Hutter could play him in his preferred defensive midfield role, which could allow Zakaria to flourish.
But before the transfer is sanctioned, an agreement is required over the fee and on personal terms between the player and Monaco.
