Juventus’ transfer offer for Premier League midfielder, Douglas Luiz, is complicated further following struggles to finalise exit conditions for Weston McKennie, who was supposed to be included as part of an exchange. The Italian club have instead offered Aston Villa Enzo Barrenechea, in addition to Samuel Iling-Junior and an improved cash sum of €25 million for their player.
Juventus Make New Bid for Douglas Luiz After Weston McKennie Negotiations Collapse
Aston Villa Begin Negotiations With Enzo Barrenechea
Fabrizio Romano reports that “negotiations are underway” between Aston Villa and Barrenechea, with the Argentinian keen on a move to the Premier League. He will replace McKennie in the multiple-player exchange deal which will see Luiz move to Juventus.
It was thought this prolonged transfer saga had reached its final stages. In exchange for their midfielder, Aston Villa were prepared to accept the initial bid. All players involved in the trade were happy with their new potential destinations.
However, it was then revealed that “no agreement” had been reached in negotiations between McKennie and his club on exit conditions; the player is now expected to be removed from the deal entirely. As it stands, Juventus’ revised transfer offer for Luiz is Barrenechea, Iling Jr, and a €25 million cash sum.
Who is Enzo Barrenechea?
A part of Juventus’ Next Generation project, Barrenechea is a prospective midfielder who can play both centrally and in a more defensive role. The 23-year-old was on loan at Frosinone last season, making 39 appearances across all competitions. His team was unlucky to be relegated by just one point, but he impressed particularly with his defensive performances throughout his first full campaign in senior football.
Barrenechea would be a positional replacement for Aston Villa’s imminent outgoing. With his current playing experience, he would likely play a rotational squad role with the hope of breaking into the first team over the next few seasons.
Douglas Luiz Remains a Priority Transfer Target
Thiago Motta was recently appointed as the new manager of the Italian outfit, and he has reportedly made the Brazilian midfielder his “priority target”. The 26-year-old made 53 appearances in all competitions last season, recording a career-high ten goals and ten assists. He would be a versatile, high-quality addition to the squad, potentially boosting their hopes of reclaiming the league title.
Read More: Chelsea Bid £28 Million For 20-Year-Old Dubbed ‘Spain’s Next Top Striker’
Arsenal have held a long-term interest in the player, he is considered “perfect”. The Gunners also had three bids rejected on the deadline day of the 2022 summer window, but a deal for them may be unlikely at this stage.
