Manuel Locatelli set to sign new long-term Juventus contract
Manuel Locatelli is poised to sign a contract extension with Juventus, committing his future to the Serie A club until 2030. According to reports from Italy, the midfielder is expected to put pen to paper on the new deal as early as next week, securing a significant salary increase that will see him earn over €4 million per season.
This extension represents a major show of faith from both parties. For Locatelli, it is a decision to fully embrace the project under manager Luciano Spalletti, especially after a period of personal difficulty that included missing out on Italy's World Cup squad. For Juventus, it secures a key pillar of their midfield for the long term and sends a strong message of stability to the rest of the squad, amid ongoing speculation surrounding other players like Dusan Vlahovic.
The renewal process is described as straightforward, with the club's intention to extend met with immediate acceptance from the player and his representatives. There was reportedly no protracted negotiation, only a mutual desire to continue the partnership. Locatelli's current deal was set to expire in 2028, but the new agreement adds two further years to his tenure in Turin.
This season has been one of redemption for the 26-year-old. After facing criticism and whistles from sections of the Juventus support during a pre-season friendly, Locatelli has matured into a vital leader, even captaining the side on multiple occasions. His importance to the team's structure has been starkly evident; performances have notably dipped in his absence, underlining his role as a rare midfielder who combines defensive quantity with technical quality.
His resurgence has not gone unnoticed elsewhere. The article notes recent, thinly-veiled admiration from Como manager Cesc Fabregas, who publicly praised Locatelli's abilities. This new contract effectively ends any speculation about a potential departure, positioning Locatelli as a cornerstone for Juventus's immediate future. The club's push for Champions League qualification is a central focus, and securing Locatelli's services is seen as a critical step in building a competitive project under Spalletti.
The financial terms place him in a similar wage bracket to teammate Weston McKennie, reflecting his renewed status within the squad. By signing this deal, Locatelli is choosing to lead by example, putting past disappointments behind him to focus on returning Juventus to the pinnacle of Italian and European football. His commitment provides a foundation of certainty as the club navigates a crucial season finale and plans for the summer transfer window.
