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Ajax have approached Juventus for Daniele Rugani, reports Football International Wednesday. The rumors about Amsterdam's interest in the defender became increasingly persistent and now the first contact would have been made with Rugani's entourage.
Ajax wants to strengthen the back line this summer and is currently exploring the options. The first talks with Rugani have now been held, in which the Amsterdammers have made it clear to the 29-year-old defender what he could mean to the club.
A sporting plan has also been outlined. Moreover, Rugani knows Francesco Farioli well: the Italian Ajax coach could be decisive in the negotiations with Rugani.
Rugani is said to be willing to move to Ajax, but the transfer is still complicated, according to reports VIAjax would have to transfer a transfer fee to Juventus, because Rugani still has a contract there until mid-2026.
That could possibly be a major stumbling block, as Ajax is currently struggling with financial resources. Players will have to leave first, before money can be spent again. However, Juventus would like to cooperate in Rugani's departure, which could be an advantage for Ajax.
The signing of Rugani could mean the end of Josip Sutalo in Amsterdam. The Croat failed to impress in his first season at the Johan Cruijff ArenA and will probably be allowed to leave this summer. Rugani does have the experience that Ajax needs in defense.
Rugani was long seen as the successor to Giorgio Chiellini, Leonardo Bonucci and Andrea Barzagli at Juventus, but he never reached that level. The Italian only played in Turin due to the lack of regular first-team players and was later loaned out to Empoli, Stade Rennes and Cagliari.
Rugani was also not a regular at Juventus last season. He played eighteen matches in all competitions, scoring three times. In Amsterdam, his experience should bring peace to the young defence.
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