The Cult of Calcio
·22 December 2024
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Yahoo sportsThe Cult of Calcio
·22 December 2024
Serie A heavyweights Juventus are reportedly contemplating a winter approach for Bayer Leverkusen center-forward Patrik Schick. According to Sky Deutschland via Calciomercato, the 28-year-old is open to leaving the BayArena after four years.
Indeed, Schick isn’t thrilled with his current status at the club. Despite bagging a game-winning quadruple in a 5-1 demolition of Freiburg yesterday, the Czech Republic international could part ways with Xabi Alonso’s side in the January transfer window.
Juventus have identified him as a potential alternative for star striker Dusan Vlahovic. However, getting a deal over the line won’t be a walk in the park. Schick has been in fine form this season, tallying 13 goals across 20 appearances in all competitions.
Therefore, it’s unsurprising the defending Bundesliga champions are keen to keep hold of Schick. With his contract expiring in 2027, last season’s beaten UEFA Europa League finalists are in no rush to negotiate his extension. Meanwhile, Juventus are unwilling to spend big this winter.
Finding a quality backup for Vlahovic has been one of Cristiano Giuntoli’s top priorities. But the Turin powerhouse won’t break the bank to address this issue, especially with Polish ace Arkadiusz Milik on the verge of full recovery after slumping to a knee injury at the tail-end of last season.
Schick failed to impress during his three-year stint at Roma. By contrast, his career has flourished at Leverkusen, and Juventus could offer him a second bite of the apple in the coming weeks.
Schick isn’t the only option for Juventus. WithInter pulling the plug on their pursuit of Lille superstar Jonathan David, Giuntoli has a clear path to the highly-rated Canada international.