The race for Sassuolo midfielder Manuel Locatelli is hotting up with the Juventus looking to upset Arsenal's chances of signing him. The Bianconeri have submitted a fresh bid to their Serie A rivals with the hope of landing the service of one of the most-sought after Euro 2020 standout performers.
Locatelli has long been linked with the Bianconeri, with a move to Turin having been touted before his exploits at the European Championship. His value has however skyrocketed after excelling in the Azzurri's charge for their first continental trophy in 56 years, attracting interest from a host of top European.
Arsenal have been identified as front-runners in the pursuit of the 23-year-old former AC Milan star with the Premier League club reportedly submitting a 40 million-euro bid to test Sassuolo's resolve. However, reports from Italy have indicated that the player has his heart set on Juventus and will push to stay within Serie A.
According to transfer news guru Fabrizio Romano, Maximilano Allegri's side is stepping up its pursuit and has submitted a bid after meeting with a delegation from Sassoulo on Friday. The Turin outfit tabled opening bid for Locatelli - an initial loan deal with obligation to buy for €30M - but was rejected by their Serie A rivals. Negotiations are still expected to continue with Juventus being a priority for the Italian midfielder.
Juventus met with Sassuolo today. Opening bid for Locatelli: loan with obligation to buy for €30m. Sassuolo refused. Negotiations with Juve will continue as they're Locatelli's priority. #Juve
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 16, 2021
Sassuolo want €40m as they know Arsenal would be prepared to pay this fee. #AFC
