Miralem Pjanic has reportedly turned down a move to Chelsea FC in the summer as the Juventus midfielder is believed to be prioritizing a switch to Spanish giants FC Barcelona.
Pjanic has been chased by Blues manager Frank Lampard with a move to the Premier League side when the transfer market reopens in July. Lampard is reported to be an admirer of the Juventus midfielder and would like to sign him to bolster the midfield options at his disposal at Chelsea FC.
The Blues were eyeing a move for Pjanic and were considering a swap deal for the Bosnian international in exchange of Jorginho, who is wanted by Juventus. Current Juventus manager Maurizio Sarri is reportedly keen on signing the Italian international Jorginho, whom he has managed on two occasions previously, during their time at Napoli and Chelsea FC. The Blues had contemplated letting Jorginho leave for Juventus if the Italian side offered Pjanic in exchange.
Pjanic is contracted to Juventus until 2023, having signed for the Serie A champions from AS Roma in 2016 for a sum of £28.8million. The midfielder has become a regular starter for the Italian side which has plenty of options in midfield.
However, there have been increasing rumours linking the Bosnian player with a move away from the Old Lady.
Juventus are reported to have put a £40 million asking price for their player and would be willing to let their prized midfielder depart if their asked valuation is met. Such a price-tag on the player is considered very high amid the impact of the ongoing pandemic on the football transfer market.
The 32-year old Pjanic is persistent on sealing a dream move to FC Barcelona. The player had been earlier reported to be close to finalising a deal with the Spanish side. However, the discussions did not materialise and the midfielder stay put in Italy and continued to impress with his performances in the Juventus shirt. Pjanic’s decision to shun Chelsea FC and decline an opportunity to play in the Premier League speaks about the player’s desire to move to Spain and complete his dream move.
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