Donnarumma: Juventus enter the race for Real Madrid target
Marotta, the Juve General Director, has confirmed that The Old Lady will attempt to sign the 'keeper as Buffon's heir, but Real Madrid remain favourites.
The summer of 2017 will be remembered for various names, and Gianluigi Donnarumma will undoubtedly be one of them. The goalkeeper confirmed on Thursday that he will not renew his current contract at AC Milan, which expires in June 2018. Real Madrid quickly emerged as the most likely destination, but Los Blancos will not be alone in their pursuit of the 18 year old.
Juventus enter Donnarumma race
PSG will almost certainly attempt to thrash out a deal, while Juventus have officially stated that they will enter the race. Beppe Marotta, the general director of the Turin club, stated unequivocally in Corriere della Sera: “Yes, Juventus will try to sign Donnarumma.”
In Gigi Buffon, Juventus have the perfect role model for the youngster. Yet at 39 years of age, ‘The Old Lady’ have to plan for life after the evergreen ‘keeper. It is expected that Donnarumma will succeed Buffon as the goalkeeper for Italy, and Marotta also hopes to make him Buffon’s heir at Juve.
“Juventus are obliged to go for it [the signing] when a player of his level is on the market.”
Marotta did not clarify whether Juventus will try to bring Donnarumma to Turin this summer, or in 2018.
Real Madrid remain ravourites
Juventus will encounter various problems in their pursuit of Donnarumma. Real Madrid are a formidable competitor in the transfer market. Beyond that, the Italy u21 man will not want to cause further affront to the AC Milan fans, and would prefer not to have to face the Rossoneri in future.
