Nicolas Gonzalez is back in training after his World Cup break ended, and his return may have made for an awkward meeting with Luciano Spalletti, after he insisted that he did not want to play for Juventus again. Spalletti had wanted to make him a key player in his team, but the attacker rejected the offer and insisted that he wanted to leave, with his preference still being to play for Atletico Madrid.
Gonzalez spent last season on loan at the Spanish club, which had an option to make the move permanent for €32m, and they agreed to activate it. However, after the season ended, Atletico asked to pay a lower amount and is willing to offer €20m for his signature.
Atletico Madrid And Juventus Disagree Over Fee
Juventus want at least €25m for Gonzalez, but the two clubs have not been able to reach an agreement. The attacker remains on the market, and the Bianconeri would welcome interest from other clubs, particularly if they are prepared to meet their valuation.
However, no other club has been willing to pay more so far. As reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, the €20m offered by Atletico remains the highest amount any team has offered for Gonzalez in this transfer window.
That situation leaves Juventus facing a difficult decision over the player’s future. While the club would prefer to receive a higher fee, there appears to be limited interest in meeting their asking price, meaning they may have to consider whether keeping Gonzalez is worthwhile.
Gonzalez And Juventus Must Decide
In the next few weeks, Gonzalez and Juventus must decide the way forward. The attacker has already made his preference clear, and his desire to leave could influence the club’s final decision.
The Bianconeri could ultimately accept Atletico’s €20m offer if Gonzalez continues to insist that he does not want to remain at Juventus. Such a decision would allow all parties to move forward, although Juventus would have to accept less than the €25m they want for the attacker.