Juventus have started scouting potential replacements for Paul Pogba and Arsenal’s Thomas Partey has emerged as a prominent candidate.
According to La Repubblica’s Turin edition, Juventus are ready to terminate Pogba’s contract if his doping test is confirmed positive after a counter-analysis.
Terminating Pogba’s contract would alleviate Juventus of a significant financial burden. They will save approximately €10 million per season in wages.
This substantial sum could be reinvested in the January transfer window to secure a replacement.
Partey is on their radar. The Ghanaian midfielder was linked with Juventus during the summer transfer window.
However, negotiations with Arsenal regarding a transfer fee failed to progress.
While personal terms with Partey are reportedly agreed, reaching an agreement with Arsenal in January is expected to be challenging.
The Bianconeri see Partey as a player capable of making a significant impact if Pogba is axed.
Partey moved to the Emirates Stadium in October 2020 from La Liga powerhouse Atletico Madrid after Arsenal triggered his €50 million release clause.
The Ghanaian midfielder subsequently formed a formidable partnership with Granit Xhaka in the heart of Arsenal’s midfield.
Partey contributed three goals in 40 appearances across all competitions last season, aiding Arsenal in their pursuit of the Premier League title, where they finished as runners-up to Manchester City.
Juventus briefly perused the free transfer market without finding any exciting options.
However, they are eyeing an intriguing prospect from their Next Gen ranks – 18-year-old talent Joseph Boende.
He has caught the attention of manager Massimiliano Allegri with his impressive performances, particularly during pre-season training with the senior squad.
