Juventus center back Leonardo Bonucci was a hot topic of conversation over the summer transfer window with a rumoured big money move to Manchester.
But which side from Manchester? The answer is both.
Manchester United and Manchester City, who are arguably the biggest rivals in England, were both trying to obtain the Italian’s signature before their opposite number.
Key player
Leonardo Bonucci is one of the key men at the Serie A side, and is part of the famous “B-B-C” defence that consists of himself, Giorgio Chiellini and Andrea Barzagli, that have helped massively in Juventus’ dominance in the league for the past 5 seasons.
Leonardo Bonucci also played very well, and was a standout performer at the summer’s European championships for his national team, Italy.
He is very tough to pry from the fingers of the Old lady of Italy, and decided to stay put instead of taking on the challenge of the EPL.
He did however tell the media: “If I said I wasn’t tempted by my offers in the EPL that would be a lie.”
Tempting offers
Manchester City’s offer for the Italian defender was within the region of 38 million euros, which Juventus were not interested in accepting at all.
Bonucci was offered a 6 million euro per year salary, which he turned down despite the temptation.
Manchester United also had an offer rejected, and are reportedly preparing a new one in the January transfer window.
Juventus are aware of this and are preparing to offer the player a new and improved contract to put an end to any outside interest.
Loyal
Bonucci did not move in the summer, and has been playing very well for Juve so far this season, and is not considering leaving the Serie A.
He is preparing for a clash with Cagliari tonight, and will face Palermo on the weekend.
His side have lots of work to do after falling 2-1 to Inter last weekend.
Written by JP Iannuzzi
Follow JP on Twitter @Iannuzzi_Calcio
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