Juventus ‘unable to reach deal to sign Manuel Locatelli after struggling to meet Sassuolo’s demands

Juventus have been locked in talks with Sassuolo to sign Italy midfielder Manuel Locatelli but are struggling to get the deal over the line after balking at their fellow Serie A club’s asking price.

Locatelli emerged as a top midfielder for the future after a sensational Euro 2020 campaign as Italy won the tournament, scoring two goals in his side’s 3-0 win over Switzerland in the group stages.

Juventus have long been keen in signing the 23-year-old and have stepped up their interest in him after the tournament as they look to bolster their squad after a disappointing last season in which they surrendered their nine-year stranglehold on the Serie A title and scraped their way into the top four.

But according to a report from Sky Sport Italia, the move is taking a while to go through as Juventus are unwilling to pay Sassuolo’s asking price.

The report says Juve have met with Sassuolo on three occasions about Locatelli but have been unable to thrash out a deal.

Sassuolo are demanding 40million euros (£34m) but Juve, who are struggling with the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic, would rather sign Locatelli on a two-year loan with an option to buy.

Juve are taking a few days to reflect and are set to meet Sassuolo again in the next few days to continue negotiations, added the report. 

Arsenal are reported to have made a bid for Locatelli, although Juventus are said to be his favoured destination.