Juventus May Sell Gatti to Meet Financial Targets
Juventus are under pressure from UEFA to raise significant funds before the June 30 accounting deadline to comply with financial regulations, according to reports from Italy. The club is considering the sale of defender Federico Gatti, valued around €30 million, as a primary option to balance their books. The need for a major sale stems from the club's aggregate loss calculations, with player trading seen as the most immediate solution to avoid potential sanctions.
Club officials, including sporting director Damien Comolli, have stated a desire not to dismantle the core of the team built for the future. This means any sale to meet financial obligations would likely involve a player not considered absolutely essential to the project's foundation. Gatti, while a valued squad member, fits this description as he operates as a backup to first-choice central defender Bremer.
The 25-year-old Italian defender renewed his contract with Juventus just last summer, but a move could appeal for the promise of more regular playing time. Gatti has enhanced his profile with several crucial goals in important moments, including a last-gasp equalizer against Roma and a memorable strike in the Europa League against Galatasaray. His performances have reportedly attracted interest from several mid-table Premier League clubs, who could meet Juventus's valuation.
Other players are also being considered for potential sales to generate the necessary capital. Defender Lloyd Kelly, whose left-footed profile is rare in the squad, is admired by Crystal Palace and Newcastle, with a fee in the region of €30 million also mentioned. However, his departure would create a significant gap on the left side of defence. Midfielder Fabio Miretti has admirers in Serie A, including Lazio, while full-back Juan Cabal is another candidate after an inconsistent season.
The financial situation is further complicated by the potential permanent signings of several players currently on loan, including Daniele Rugani, Douglas Luiz, and Nico Gonzalez. Their expected purchase obligations will add to Juventus's financial outlay, making player sales this summer even more critical. The club's strategy will involve navigating these outgoing and incoming transactions to stabilize their accounts while attempting to maintain a competitive squad for the upcoming season.
