Transfer News – Juventus close in on Bayern Outcast and Arsenal Target Medhi Benatia

With the arrival of Mats Hummels from Dortmund, Medhi Benatia was always likely to seek a move elsewhere to get more playing time. Having been previously linked with a loan move back to Italy with Juventus, it seems now that the Moroccan is now close to signing with the Old Lady. 

Medhi Benatia was one of those players deeply admired by Juventus back during their time in Italy. The Old Lady had lacked the financial muscle to prize him away back then from their bitter rivals and fellow title contenders AS Roma. Arsenal were reportedly also in pursuit of the defender as they are looking to improve their side on all fronts.

The Tides Turning

The acquisition of Miralem Pjanic from Roma was more significant as a marker of changing times in Serie A. It was a statement of intent from Juventus, a statement asserting that they no longer have to care for diplomacy. Having missed out on so many talents before from Serie A, who have moved abroad, Juventus are no longer in an untoward financial position.

Benatia, however, is not the most sought after centre backs in the world but he certainly was one of the best during his time with the capital club before being sold to Bayern in the August of 2014 for a fee £23.9 million. Dogged by his injuries Benatia was very much pushed to the periphery of the team even before the arrival of Dortmund’s defensive stalwart having made only 14 appearances last season.

The Figures and Proceedings

Sky and Di Marzio reported yesterday that Juve were very close to securing the services of Benatia on loan with an obligation to buy in the future for €18 million (via IFD). La Repubblica more over reports that Benatia could also be taking a pay cut from €2.2m to €2m but wants guaranteed playing time (via Football-Italia)

Ex-La Masia youth Martin Caceras, who also had an injury-plagued campaign last season, has recently seen his contract expired, which means Juve are looking for a fifth centre back. However, that does not necessarily mean that Benatia will be the fifth choice for Juve. Allegri still uses Conte’s old 3-5-2 formation which accommodates three central defenders. With Chiellini being injury prone, Barzagli nearing 35 and Rugani still largely untested at the top level the onus will fall upon Benatia to marshal the defense alongside the hugely successful Leonardo Bonucci.

Allegri still uses Conte’s old 3-5-2 formation which accommodates three central defenders. With Chiellini being injury prone, Barzagli nearing 35 and Rugani still largely untested at the top level the onus will fall upon Benatia to marshal the defence alongside the hugely successful Leonardo Bonucci.