Socrates

Boca Juniors aim to present Carlos Tevez in July after Juventus talks http://www.espnfc.co.uk/story/2503368/boca-juniors-agree-deal-to-sign-carlos-tevez-from-juventus? Jun 25, 2015 Boca Juniors are hopeful that they will be able to present Carlos Tevez to the club's fans on July 7. Tevez, who began his professional career at Boca, had been expected to return to the Argentine club when his current contract at Juventus expires next year, but they have been negotiating a transfer fee with the Italian champions this week. Boca said at the weekend that they were confident a deal would be agreed and general secretary Cesar Martucci has now indicated that it is in place. He told AM 1050: "We are very happy. After a lot of work, we have nailed down the return of Carlos Tevez." No details of the agreement have been revealed but it is reported that Boca have agreed to pay €5 million as well as offering a player in exchange, with 21-year-old striker Jonathan Calleri touted as a likely option by El Intransigente. Italy's Tuttosport has also suggested midfielder Guido Vadala and Uruguayan defender Rodrigo Bentancur as potential options. "We have not mortgaged the fate of the club to bring back Carlos Tevez," Martucci said. Tevez, 31, joined Boca as a youth in 1997 before agreeing a move to Brazilian side Corinthians in December 2004, but he has always spoken of a desire to return to the Buenos Aires-based club while still capable of performing at a high level. "In Argentine football, there is not another player like Carlitos," Martucci added. "This is a great joy for all the fans of Boca. "Unlike many players who returned, Carlos Tevez returns at the maximum. Hopefully the return of Carlos Tevez will give the Boca fans the results they expect." Tevez had already been scheduled to play in former Boca midfielder Sebastian Battaglia's valedictory match on July 8, and Martucci said: "It is likely that we may present Tevez day before Battaglia's farewell game." Martucci said he hoped Boca would be able to retain Southampton striker Pablo Daniel Osvaldo, who has been on loan at the club since February. "Whether he stays or not depends on the English club," he said. "Hopefully the return of Carlitos will be an influence." Juve, who have already secured deals for Paulo Dybala and Mario Mandzukic this summer, have reluctantly agreed to grant Tevez his wish to return. The sale of the 31-year-old, who has scored 19 and 20 goals in his two seasons in Serie A, will take an estimated €5 million off the Bianconeri's wage bill next season.

Juventus 2014-15 Season Ratings: The Fullbacks, The Wingbacks, The Wide Men http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/6/24/8793417/juventus-2014-15-season-ratings-fullbacks-lichtsteiner-evra-asamoah-padoin Jun 24, 2015 Looking back on a season of wholesale change and no small bit of success, many of the key contributions came from wide areas. Whether playing in a four- or five-man defense, Juventus' core of wide men offered boundless energy, pinpoint crossing, and defensive rigor. With experience, versatility, and great nicknames like Uncle Pat, The Swiss Express, and The Padoin, it certainly feels a long time since we were choosing between Marco Motta and Zdeněk Grygera at right back. The wingbacks, or fullbacks in a back four, are the guys running the flank for 90 minutes, asked to mark skilled attackers at one end and provide attacking width at the other. It is a role for robots, really, with no time for human failings like fatigue and inattention. While other positions get nicknames from the high arts, things like "Pinturicchio" or "l'Architetto," or fiction — "Superman," among many others — fullbacks get named after trains. Cafu was "Il Pendolino," named after the high speed "swaying" trains. Our own Stephan Lichtsteiner, a one-time hero on the other side of Rome, earned his "Swiss Express" nickname in much the same way. But whoever has stepped into the breech on either side of Juventus' central defense this term could lay claim to their own train route, such has been the consistency of the group's performance. Anyway, on to the particulars. Stephan Lichtsteiner - 8 What more can be said of the Swiss Express? A constant down the right flank since he joined from Lazio, this year the 31-year-old played more Serie A minutes than all but four Juventus players: goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, center back Leonardo Bonucci, midfield all-rounder Claudio Marchisio. and attacking inspiration Carlos Tévez. Our Lichtsteiner is nothing if not fiery, and only a couple bans for card accumulation, as well as the red against Torino, kept him from accumulating even more minutes down the right. A vital component to many parts of Juventus' game, Lichtsteiner's constant presence in attack gives the midfielders and forwards a wide option, with Andrea Pirlo particularly in sync with the dynamic movement of the former Grasshoppers man. Over and over the system of movements would repeat, a Conte trademark that was maintained by Allegri. Ball from the left to Pirlo, then Pirlo drops it into the box for Lichtsteiner. It was the move that created the first goal in the Juventus Stadium, and right through to the current day defences are powerless to stop it. With just a bit more luck on his final ball, the right-back could have contributed even more than his three goals and six assists. It was a career year for the fullback, who remains under-appreciated as one of Europe's best. His finest performance came in the 7-0 thrashing of Parma, contributing a lovely goal and dishing out two assists. Patrice Evra - 7.5 "Uncle Pat" came back to Italy this past summer, signing for Juventus after eight trophy-laden years in the red of Manchester United. At 34 years old, Evra was seen by many to be in decline, unable to match the bursts of younger players and, perhaps most of all, a symbol of the old, Ferguson-era team that needed moving on. Fortunately for Juventus, Patrice settled on Turin for a late-career renaissance. Initially competing with Kwadwo Asamoah for playing time in the 3-5-2 of the early part of the season, Evra showed that he was more than up for the challenge. While not offering the midfielder skillset that makes Asamoah such a threat when he comes in off his flank, Evra offered a traditional wide presence, always looking to get to the bye line and drill crosses in. For all his physical tools, however, it would be no exaggeration to say that Evra's biggest impact on the team has been psychological. The man has won the Champions League, and been to the late stages time and time again. He has faced Lionel Messi, played with and against Cristiano Ronaldo, left the final in tears of pain and tears of joy. He offers a depth of experience that few players in the world can match, and that kind of assurance, on the biggest nights, is invaluable. On a personal level, it is not Evra's best season, with somewhat disappointing returns of four assists and just one goal. It was on the defensive side though that Evra did his best work on the field, shutting down his side along with Giorgio Chiellini, and based on the overwhelming success of the team, he was clearly doing something right. Perhaps the greatest compliment that can be paid to Uncle Pat, on the basis of this season, is that without him, his calm and experience and assuredness, it is very hard to imagine Juventus making the Champions League final. All that and the man's not afraid to C-walk. Simone Padoin - 6.5 The Padoin once again racked up the appearances for Juventus this season, playing on both sides of defense, in a three or a four, and even popping up in central midfield. Contributing four assists as well as consistent, positionally sound play, Padoin has proven himself a valuable squad member, even if he's not the one you want starting the biggest games. Best along the right flank, this season Padoin was mostly filling in on the left. He still managed to assist a fellow fullback, Lichtsteiner in the 3-0 win over Cesena, but was playing in central midfield at the time. Kwadwo Asamoah - s/v The Ghanaian international started the season well, alternating with Evra on the left flank and deputizing in midfield, with the team hoping to cover for his absence during the African Cup of Nations in January. Unfortunately, injury struck, with damaged knee cartilage requiring surgery and a long layoff. Finally returning for the Coppa Ialia-Scudetto double celebration game against Napoli, hopefully next season will see much more of the talented left-footer. Rômulo - s/v Brought on the "Marotta Special" of a loan-with-option-to-buy, the Brazilian fullback-turned-central midfielder started the season as Allegri's first-choice backup to Stephan Lichtsteiner. After an excellent season at Hellas Verona playing in midfield, the Brazilian was also given chances in the engine room, however never got going in either position due to lingering injury troubles. Only given three starts, one in midfield and two on the right flank, Juventus supporters have not seen much of Rômulo since joining. With his playing rights likely returning to Hellas, hopefully next season will be one of rebirth for Rômulo, who at 28 may sadly have lost his only shot at a big club. Paolo De Ceglie - s/v Everyone's favorite Ashton Kutcher look-alike returned from Parma as the financial waves crashed over the Gialloblu bow. Taking his station on the left, like always, the youth product showed once again that he can probably be a decent Serie A player, just not at Juve. Paolino got another start in Bianconero to add to his C.V., if nothing else, turning out in the 1-0 win over Palermo and then entering as a sub against Cagliari as the season wound down. All the best Paolino, maybe it didn't turn out like you had hoped, but we'll always remember when you were the best we had.

Boca: 'Tevez total agreement' http://www.football-italia.net/68243/boca-tevez-total-agreement? Jun 24, 2015 Boca Juniors told reporters there is “total agreement” with Juventus for the transfer of Carlos Tevez. According to Clarin, secretary general Cesar Martucci confirmed there is “total agreement,” with a three-year contract and he is due to be presented to the fans on July 7. Juventus are set to receive €5m plus Guido Vadalà on loan with option to buy and first refusal on two players. The 31-year-old striker desperately wanted to come back ‘home’ to his beloved Boca and asked to be released a year before his contract expired. Juve have been in talks with the Argentine club for some weeks and reached an agreement today. Boca will pay €5m plus the loan of impressive young attacking midfielder Vadalà. It’s reported there will also be options on striker Cristian Pavon and Franco Cristaldo. Carlitos will be presented to the Boca Juniors fans on July 7, the day before Seba Battaglia’s testimonial. He grew up in the Boca youth academy and played for the club until joining Corinthians in January 2005. He went on to West Ham United, Manchester United, Manchester City and arrived at Juventus in July 2013. This season was one of the most prolific in his entire career, netting 29 goals in 48 competitive club games for the Bianconeri. That included 20 in Serie A, seven to reach the Champions League Final and two in the Italian Super Cup.

Tevez is returning to Boca Juniors - Martucci The Argentine side's general secretary has all but confirmed the striker is on his way back to the club where he began his professional career. http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2892/transfer-zone/2015/06/24/13027732/-? Jun 24, 2015 Juventus striker Carlos Tevez is set to return to Boca Juniors, according to the Argentine club's general secretary. The 31-year-old has been heavily linked with a return to the club at which he started his career, having already told Juventus of his desire to move this summer. Tevez was a crucial part of the Juve side that won Serie A and the Coppa Italia, and also reached the Champions League final, which was lost 3-1 to Barcelona. Though he is tied to the Bianconeri until June 2016, the Italian side have already signed Mario Mandzukic from Atletico Madrid this summer and Cesar Martucci has revealed that Tevez's move is all but confirmed. "We are very happy," he told AM 1050. "After much work we can secure the return of Carlos Tevez. "We hope that with Carlos' return, we can achieve the results that Boca fans are expecting. Unlike many players who returned to the club, he comes at full capacity." Tevez scored 20 goals in 32 league appearances for the Serie A champions in 2014-15, adding seven more in the Champions League.

Boca Juniors Officialise Agreement For Tevez http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/06/boca-juniors-officialise-agreement-for-juventus-tevez/? Jun 24, 2015 Carlos Tevez’s departure from Juventus has been agreed on, with the Bianconeri and Boca Juniors agreeing on a fee for the transfer. Tevez had voiced his willingness to return to Argentina, leaving both clubs to reach an agreement and negotiate over the terms of the striker’s departure. The agreement between the Bianconeri and Boca Juniors is now official, according to the Argentine club’s official website. The Boca Juniors’ website report the details of the deal, with the Juventus receiving €5 million for the transfer of Tevez. The deal also includes the arrival of three Boca Juniors youngsters to join Juventus: Guido Vadala, Cristian Pavon and Franco Cristaldo. Tevez is due to be presented at the Bombonera on July 7. Tevez spent two seasons with the Bianconeri, enjoying his best season last year scoring 20 goals in Serie A.

Boca closer to Tevez deal http://www.football-italia.net/68216/boca-closer-tevez-deal? Jun 24, 2015 It’s reported Boca Juniors have moved a step closer to signing Carlos Tevez from Juventus, after including Guido Vadala in the deal. The striker wants to return to his boyhood club in his native Argentina, and representatives from Boca have been in Italy this week trying to agree on a transfer. Now Gianluca Di Marzio’s website is reporting that an agreement is imminent, with the Xeneizes having agreed to include Vadala as part of any deal. As well as Vadala, the Bianconeri would be given a fixed-price option on Franco Cristaldo and Cristian Pavon, two Boca youngsters. The website cautions that a deal is not yet complete, with Juventus still asking €6.5m as a transfer fee, but the transfer is very close, and virtually certain to go through.

Pirlo to New York now http://www.football-italia.net/68193/report-pirlo-new-york-now? Jun 23, 2015 There are reports Andrea Pirlo has decided to join New York City FC next month rather than stay at Juventus until January. The veteran midfielder will be out of contract on June 30 and is considering his prospects. He’s spending his vacation in New York with his family, fuelling rumours of an imminent switch to the MLS club for €5m per season. According to La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport, Pirlo has now made a decision – he will join NYCFC immediately rather than wait until January. The other option had been to stay on at Juventus until the end of 2015. Pirlo turned 36 years old last month and won five consecutive Scudetto titles – one at Milan, then four in a row at Juve.

No Boca deal for Tevez yet http://www.football-italia.net/68191/no-boca-deal-tevez-yet? Jun 23, 2015 According to Italian reports, Juventus will meet with Boca Juniors for Carlos Tevez tomorrow after failing to agree terms. The two clubs had negotiations today in Milan between Juve director general Beppe Marotta and Boca President Daniel Angelici. Sky Sport Italia, Tuttosport and La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport all suggest no deal was reached, so there will be another meeting on Wednesday. Tevez has a contract that does not expire until June 2016 and Juve value the player at €6m. It’s very likely that one or more players will be included as part of a exchange deal. Options include Jonathan Calleri – also a target for Palermo and West Ham – Rodrigo Bentancur and now also 18-year-old right-sided winger Guido Vadalá.

Defensive forwards a common trait among Europe's elite http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/tactics-and-analysis/67/post/2502372/defensive-forwards-a-common-trait-among-european-elite? Jun 23, 2015 Ask an Arsenal supporter about their memories of the "Invincibles" season of 2003-04, and they'll probably mention Thierry Henry's goal return, Dennis Bergkamp's creative genius or Robert Pires' tricky wing play. But one of the most exhilarating parts of Arsenal's play was, somewhat surprisingly, when their star man conceded possession. Henry's poor touches were few and far between, but when a misplaced pass went to an opponent rather than a teammate, the Frenchman made it his own personal mission to regain possession. Immediately -- usually in the first half at Highbury, when Arsenal were attacking the old Clock End -- he'd sprint to the relevant defender to quickly put in a tackle, and then do the same if the opposition managed to start a passing move in their right-back zone. He charged back and forth between defenders until the ball was Arsenal's once again. It was, in its own way, truly spectacular. At the time, that felt somewhat unique. Since then, top-class forwards at other major, groundbreaking sides have followed suit and played crucial roles in trying to regain the ball. In fact, almost every innovative side in recent years has been notable for the work rate of their centre-forward. Hard-working centre-forwards can broadly be separated into two categories, according to whether the centre-forward is playing in a proactive, pressing side attempting to regain the ball in advanced positions, or as part of a deeper defensive block that looks to soak up pressure before counter-attacking. Either way, it's no longer enough for teams to defend with two banks of four -- the forwards must play a significant part in the defensive phase of play, too. Barcelona were the team which helped re-popularise the concept of pressing. In Pep Guardiola's 2008-09 side, the forwards were hardworking, but by 2010-11 they'd taken it to another level, especially with Lionel Messi as a permanent central forward. Samuel Eto'o in 2008-09 and Zlatan Ibrahimovic in 2009-10 weren't so keen to waste energy when the opposition had the ball. Over in Dortmund, meanwhile, Jurgen Klopp's side were also enjoying great success with their heavy pressure. Lucas Barrios, whose part in their rise has been somewhat forgotten because of Robert Lewandowski's development, was crucial in setting an example to the rest of the side. Barrios was always on the move to shut down a defender, forcing his opponent onto his weak side, or denying a pass into the midfield zone. Luis Suarez is another example. While he didn't win the Premier League title with Liverpool in 2013-14, the club came astonishingly close, largely because of the Uruguayan's effort. And "effort" is exactly the word, with Suarez displaying the same tenacity without the ball as when bundling his way past defenders. Liverpool, without the demands of European football that season, simply looked so much fresher than their major rivals, epitomised by the 5-1 victory over Arsenal when the tempo of the two sides was hugely contrasting. Suarez was always crucial, his energy and mobility almost as memorable as his long-range strikes. Alternatively, however, forwards can play a crucial part in the defensive phase of play by doing the opposite: rather than sprinting up the pitch to pressure defenders, they drop deep and keep the side compact in a lower block. That way, the opposition defenders -- and sometimes holding midfielders -- have time on the ball, but playing a pass into the midfield zone becomes very difficult. The classic example is the roles played by Diego Costa and David Villa during Atletico's La Liga-winning campaign of 2013-14. While both would prefer to be stationed in the opposition penalty box, they usually took up positions goal-side of the opposition's holding midfielders, meaning Atletico's midfielders had a smaller zone to cover. The defensive transitions were excellent: As soon as Atletico lost the ball, one player would press the man in possession but everyone, including Costa and Villa, would drop back into position immediately. Costa had the explosive power to burst forward into attack too, but Villa lacked that acceleration by this point. He barely scored towards the end of the season, yet his place was assured because his discipline and work rate was consistently outstanding, and therefore he was playing his role perfectly. The replacement for those two, Mario Mandzukic, was signed partly because he had shown he was capable of tremendous work rate, too, in the previous season's Champions League. His performance for Bayern Munich in a 2-0 win over Juventus was quite outstanding. He managed to blend the two different styles of centre-forward discipline: he pressed energetically when Juventus were trying to play out from the back, but then when they bypassed that press, he dropped back into his own half, meaning that if Juve played the ball back into defence, Bayern now had 10 men behind the ball. Mandzukic lacked the explosive pace to make a slightly different approach work with Atletico -- his limitations hadn't been so obvious at Bayern, when Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery led the counter-attacking. It's interesting that Mandzukic has now signed for Juve, which experienced his stunning work rate in the aforementioned game two years ago, and then regularly took up a very Atletico-esque shape in this year's Champions League knockout stage, with Carlos Tevez and Alvaro Morata dropping back deep.

Allegri Targeting Fifth Straight Serie A Title For Juventus http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/06/allegri-targeting-fifth-straight-serie-a-title-for-juventus/? Jun 23, 2015 Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri is hoping for a fifth straight Serie A title for the Bianconeri as preparations for the 2015/16 season continue. After confirming the signing of striker Mario Mandzukic, the Old Lady seem to only get stronger as they add experienced players such as Sami Khedira to their squad alongside up and coming talents including Paulo Dybala. “I hope that Juventus can go and win their fifth Serie A title in a row,” the Italian coach told an event at Aglianese Calcio, the final team he played for and subsequently took charge of in 2003. “I hope that this year Aglianese can win the championship, I had a very positive experience here and if I had not started here then I would not be coach of Juventus.” Tuscan side Aglianese play in the seventh tier of Italian football, the Prima Categoria, and clearly holds a special place in the 47-year-old’s heart, leading to being awarded honorary citizenship of the city of Agliana. “I spent two wonderful years here and I believe Agliana will always remain in my heart. I still follow Aglianese today.”

Calleri to Juve for Tevez? http://www.football-italia.net/68184/calleri-juve-tevez? Jun 23, 2015 Boca Juniors could offer Palermo target Jonathan Calleri to Juventus as part of their deal for Carlos Tevez. Although Tevez has made it abundantly clear he wants a return ‘home’ to Boca, Juve are also adamant they won’t let him go for free. He has one year left to run on his contract and so far negotiations for a cash exchange have not gone well. According to Todo Noticias, the Bianconeri may well have found the solution in the form of 21-year-old striker Calleri. He can play as a centre-forward, a support striker or on the right side of a trident attack. The main stumbling block is represented by Palermo, who have been in negotiations with Calleri for some time. Their deal has not been finalised, so Juve could intercept to get Calleri and perhaps eventually loan him to the Rosanero. The young Argentine is also a known target for Stoke City.

Bonucci Expected To Sign Contract Extension http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/06/juventus-defender-expected-to-sign-contract-extension/? Jun 23, 2015 Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci could reportedly sign a contract extension in the coming days depending on the outcome of a meeting between his representatives and the Old Lady executives. The 28-year-old, whose current deal with the Bianconeri is set to expire in June 2017, has seen himself linked with a shocking move to European giants Real Madrid lately, though it seems like his future may still be in Turin for now. According to GianlucaDiMarzio.com, the Italian international’s agent will be meeting with the Juventus executives on Thursday with hopes of finally coming to an agreement regarding a new deal for the centre back, as talks in recent weeks have failed to produce anything concrete. Reports suggest that Real Madrid may be looking to steal Bonucci from the Serie A champions if Sergio Ramos were to make his departure from the Primera Division club this summer, which could pose a serious threat to Juve’s mission to keep him. The defender scored three goals in his 34 Serie A appearances last term.

Nedved: Tevez irreplaceable for Juventus The club legend suggested it would be foolish to think Mario Mandzukic or anyone else can hold a candle to the departing Argentina forward. http://www.goal.com/en/news/10/italy/2015/06/23/12990242/-? Jun 23, 2015 Juventus board member Pavel Nedved has cast doubt over whether Mario Mandzukic can fill the boots of "irreplaceable" striker Carlos Tevez. The Croatia international, 29, was signed for €19 million from Atletico Madrid on Monday, ending his one-year spell at the Vicente Calderon having joined from Bayern Munich. Mandzukic is intended to cover for the widely expected departure of Tevez, who looks set to swap Turin for boyhood club Boca Juniors upon the current Copa America's completion. However, Bianconeri legend Nedved has questioned whether Tevez's 50 goals and leadership qualities can be mimicked. "Tevez is irreplaceable," Nedved is quoted in Balkan media as saying following confirmation of the Mandzukic deal. "It's a big blow for Juventus that he's going. He's been a leader these past two years. "But he's made a decision because of his family and that must be respected." When asked specifically about the signings that Massimiliano Allegri's Scudetto and Coppa Italia holders have made so far this summer, such as Mandzukic and Paulo Dybala, Nedved suggested positive strides have definitely been made. "The incoming arrivals are all good players that will keep us at the top of Italy and Europe," the former Czech Republic star added. "The young players will have a chance to grow up and prosper as great players."

Not Like For Like: Mandzukic Won’t Fill Juventus Void Left By Tevez With Juve’s Argentinian striker expected to leave for former club Boca Juniors, it is a Croatian Super Mario from Spain who arrived to fill the void. http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/06/not-like-for-like-mandzukic-wont-fill-juventus-void-left-by-tevez/? Jun 23, 2015 The Bianconeri paid €18 million for the Croatian international but Juventus fans should not expect him to be a prolific marksman like Tevez. For instance, Mandzukic is not a like-for-like replacement for Tevez. The Argentine was a support striker who has great stamina and a fantastic work ethic whereas the Croatian is a traditional style central striker. Although Tevez isn’t an out-and-out number 9, he is a more prolific scorer than Mandzukic. The Croat scored 20 goals in 43 matches for Atletico Madrid last season, including 12 in 28 La Liga matches whereas “El Apache” scored 29 goals in 48 matches for Juventus, 20 in 32 Serie A matches. Manzdukic has never scored more than 20 goals in a league campaign throughout his career, with his best tally being 18 goals in 30 German Bundesliga matches with Bayern Munich in 2013-14. Aside from last year, Tevez has scored 20 goals or more in three league seasons. He scored 20 goals in 29 matches for Corinthians in 2005 Campeonato Brasileiro, 23 goals in 35 EPL matches for Manchester City in 2009-10 and 20 goals in 31 league matches for the Citizens in the following season. Mandzukic shares more similarities with Spanish striker Fernando Llorente because of his height and aerial ability but he is mobile than the former Athletic Club striker. He has played in teams in which the focus has been on possession football and keeping the ball on the ground so Juve don’t have to send an abundance of long-balls into the penalty box. Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri will need to build his forward line around Mandzukic though, if the 29-year-old is to function effectively. The Bianconeri played in a narrow 4-3-1-2 formation under Allegri in 2014-15 but they will need to provide more width if Mandzukic is to thrive in Turin. Allegri has suggested recently that he could change the formation to the 4-3-3 for next season and that formation would suit Mandzukic because he would get supply from the wings and from the centre. Juventus look keen to improve despite doing the domestic double in Italy and are showing they can attract big names to their club again. How would the other strikers at Juve feel though? Will Allegri managed to find the right system for his team? The Bianconeri have signed Paulo Dybala from Palermo, who is a nimble player and could adapt to playing wide but Alvaro Morata is predominantly a centre-forward. The Spaniard is a mobile player and he can dribble but he is not the type of forward a coach can use on the wings. Allegri might need to change the roles of Morata, Dybala and Mandzukic if he wants those three to feature simultaneously in a match. Carlos Tevez left a great mark on Juventus in just two seasons in Turin. He won two scudetti, won a Coppa Italia title, and he played an important role in the Bianconeri’s run to this year’s Champions League Final. The Argentine also scored 50 goals in 96 matches with the Italian giants. Mario Mandzukic won’t have it easy filling the void left by Tevez but he needs to leave his own mark at Juventus.

Fernando Llorente unaware of Liverpool and Monaco interest http://www.espnfc.co.uk/story/2501988/juventus-fernando-llorente-unaware-of-liverpool-interest? Jun 23, 2015 Fernando Llorente has said he is planning to stay at Juventus and knows nothing about reported interest from Liverpool and Monaco. Llorente found himself competing for playing time with Carlos Tevez and Alvaro Morata last season as Juve won Serie A and the Coppa Italia as well as reaching the Champions League final. Although Tevez appears set to join Boca Juniors this summer, the Italian champions have already bolstered their attacking options with deals to sign Paulo Dybala from Palermo and Mario Mandzukic from Atletico Madrid, but Llorente has no plans to move on. The Spain international told Mediaset Premium: "My intention right now is to stay. "I need to talk with the club, and see what they say too. For sure there are many changes, but let's hope we can continue to do as well as we have been doing in recent years. If Tevez does leave, I will be sorry as he is a great man and a great striker." Liverpool, who had expressed an interest in signing Llorente before he left Athletic Bilbao, and Monaco have been linked. However, the striker said: "I don't know anything about that -- I've just got married, I am leaving for my honeymoon and am not thinking about anything else."

Report: Pirlo agrees New York deal http://www.football-italia.net/68167/report-pirlo-agrees-new-york-deal? Jun 23, 2015 Reports in the U.S. claim Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo has agreed a deal to join New York City. The Italian international has a year remaining on his contract with the Bianconeri, but has been linked with a move to MLS this summer. The New York Daily News says believes that Pirlo, who is the Big Apple at the moment, has agreed a deal with New York City worth between $5-$6m [€4.4-€5.3m] per season. The news outlet believes the World Cup winner would join up with the American side within a few weeks, joining Frank Lampard and David Villa.

Brazilian Starlet Could Be Key To Barcelona’s Move For Pogba http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/06/brazilian-starlet-could-be-key-to-barcelonas-move-for-juventus-midfielder/? Jun 23, 2015 Barcelona may use Fluminense starlet Gerson as a make weight in order to tempt Juventus into selling highly rated French international midfielder Paul Pogba. The 18-year-old is regarded as one of Brazil’s most promising young talents and the Catalan giants are believed to have paid the Rio de Janeiro club €3million in order to secure a first option on the U-20 internationalist. The deal gives Barcelona priority on signing the player for a further transfer fee until 2019. Mundo Deportivo reports that the Blaugrana are willing to sacrifice that agreement by offering the Bianconeri their first option on Gerson in order to tempt the Turin side into selling Pogba and also in the hopes of lower the financial demands of the Italian champions. The Spanish newspaper goes to highlight that Juventus have held a long standing interest in the attacking midfielder and had previously rivalled Barcelona for his signature. Gerson only made his senior debut for Fluminense in February, but has since went on to make 19 appearances in all competitions for the Tricolor Carioca.

Pirlo Set To Earn At Least €5 Million Per Season At New York City FC http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/06/juventus-mifielder-set-to-earn-at-least-e5-million-per-season-at-new-york-city-fc/? Jun 23, 2015 Ahead of Andrea Pirlo’s proposed move from Italian champions Juventus to Major League Soccer side New York City FC, the figures for his forthcoming contract have been released. The 36-year-old, who still has one year remaining on his current contract with the Bianconeri, is reportedly set to depart Turin this summer to become one of MLS’s most highly paid players. The New York Daily News have reported that the 2006 World Cup winner is likely to earn around €5-6 million a year and could become the team’s joint top earner alongside ex-Barcelona man David Villa as well as former Chelsea player Frank Lampard, whose arrival is imminent following his loan spell at Manchester City. During Pirlo’s decorated career, he has appeared for the likes of AC Milan, Inter and obviously Juventus and he has won the Scudetto six times as well as the Champions League twice during his 20 year career in Italian football.

How Juventus could line up with Mandzukic in a 4-3-3 formation The Bianconeri have agreed a deal to sign the Croatia star - but how will they set up next season with the No.9? http://www.goal.com/en-za/news/4682/transfer-zone/2015/06/23/12979112/-? Jun 23, 2015 Following the news that Carlos Tevez had decided to end his two-year stay in Turin by declaring his desire to return to his beloved Boca Juniors, Juventus wasted no time in finding a replacement. A deal has been struck to bring Atletico Madrid striker Mario Mandzukic to Vinovo, with Juventus set to pay a €15 million transfer fee and €3m of add-ons. So how will Mandzukic slot into his new side? A switch to a 4-3-3 formation from Massimiliano Allegri's favoured 4-3-1-2 system is now a real option, with the coach himself admitting as much last week. This would allow Allegri to unleash another new signing in Argentine sensation Paulo Dybala and Alvaro Morata either side of Mandzukic in a fearsome three-man frontline. It would also ensure that the lack of a natural trequartista can be remedied. The likes of Simone Zaza, who could return from Sassuolo, Kingsley Coman and Roberto Pereyra would serve as further attacking options, although the signing of another attacker or return of Domenico Berardi cannot be ruled out at this stage. Fernando Llorente is almost certain to depart along with Tevez. Juventus' midfield is packed full of talent, with Paul Pogba, Arturo Vidal, Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio, Sami Khedira, Simone Sturaro, Kwadwo Asamoah and the joker in Pereyra all jostling for three spots (or four when Allegri uses a 4-3-1-2). It is thus likely that at least one current midfielder will leave, with Pirlo, who has an offer from New York City, and Vidal considered the most at risk. Juventus' defence is unlikely to change much, although Martin Caceres will challenge and rotate with Stephan Lichtsteiner at right back.

Juventus 2014-15 Season Ratings: The Goalkeepers http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/6/23/8777723/juventus-2014-15-season-ratings-the-goalkeepers-gianluigi-buffon-marco-storari Jun 23, 2015 If you are a Juventus supporter, there might not be a single thing more enjoyable than watching Gianluigi Buffon celebrate his teammates doing something great. He is, at the age of 37 years old, still the same old cat playing the position at the highest of ability. World-class ability, I might add, and he does so with the same kind of energy and passion he did a decade or two ago. Based on what we know and how the 2014-15 season played out, Buffon had plenty of reasons to celebrate. Take, say, the moments after Juventus advanced to the Champions League final with a 1-1 draw against Ream Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu. That's Buffon Celebration Level at about 100 out of 10 right there. Of course, Juventus' defense — led at the back by the ever-stalwart Buffon — was a big reason for European success and a fourth straight Serie A title. In the past three seasons, Juventus has allowed 24, 23 and 24 goals in Serie A, respectively. Even with a change in manager, change in formation and plenty of potential issues along the way, that's damn good consistency for a unit that still struggled with the simple things from time to time. Was Juventus' defense better than it was a season or two ago? The stats say they were pretty much equal to one another, but the eye test might not tell you the same thing. No matter how you or I feel about how Juventus' defense played throughout the season, I feel safe in saying this: The man wearing the No. 1 jersey was just as good as ever. Yes, still one of the best as he hits his late-30s. That's no joke. That's the way it's been for years and, until further notice, how it will continue to be. When you've got one of the best to ever play the game still producing at the highest level at this age, you throw logic right out the window. Gianluigi Buffon - 8.5 When I wrote last season's ratings, I threw some stats at you. The main one, as you will see if you click the link, was how many saves Buffon made in his three seasons with Antonio Conte as Juventus' manager. He played in pretty much the same amount of games, and it provided a pretty good representation of how Juventus' defense took a bit of a step back one season ago. This season, however, Buffon made all of 63 saves in 33 Serie A starts. That's an average of just about two per game, and far from a blistering rate or anything close to it. Nicola Leali, on loan at Cesena from Juventus, made 90 saves in 28 games, Mattia Perin made 120 saves in 32 games played. And they weren't even close to the league leader, Atalanta's Marco Sportiello, who made an astonishing 152 saves (an average of over four per game). Buffon was never going to make as many saves as those three goalkeepers because he was never going to face as many shots as them. We're talking about the best defense in the league compared to a couple of the worst. For all the injuries (Andrea Barzagli, Martin Cáceres, etc.) and players out of form for most of the season (Giorgio Chiellini), Buffon only faced 83 shots on target all season long. Sportiello, on the other hand, faced 208. And just like last season, the consistent force was Buffon. The amount of saves Buffon did make will make it seem like he didn't have much to do. But when you look at the quality of saves he had to make — both in Serie A and the Champions League — it's hard to say anything other than he was one of Juventus' best players once again this season. And in the rare case where he was needed to carry the defense more than usual, like in the latter stages of the Champions League, he was up to the task. Not that it's much of a surprise, really. This is Gigi Buffon we're talking about here. Marco Storari - 7 It's hard to appreciate a backup goalkeeper sometimes because we see so little of them when everything goes according to plan, but Marco Storari certainly does deserve some appreciation. That's simply because when he's played, he's done as well as anybody could really ask of him. Just like about every other year outside of his first season at Juventus, Storari was basically the official Coppa Italia goalkeeper and sparingly used in Serie A. He appeared in five Serie A games this season — most of which came when Allegri rested Buffon after Juventus wrapped up the Scudetto with plenty of time to spare. (And yes, that includes in the Derby d'Italia where he pulled off this crazy double save against Inter.) And that's the beauty of Storari being Juve's backup goalkeeper. He's reliable as can be despite not appearing in games for weeks or months at a time. I hope he comes back for a sixth season with Juventus. But if Storari, who turned 38 in January, decides to go elsewhere, I won't be mad at all. He's earned the right to go wherever he wants and do whatever he wants to do. Rubinho - s/v We saw even less of Juventus' famed unibrow. That's probably a good thing. With Neto expected to be arriving on a free transfer this summer and Storari's contract status for next season still relatively uncertain at this point, who knows if Rubinho will return to Juventus for another no-appearance-yet-win-a-Scudetto tour of duty. If he doesn't, we'll always have the good times, my friend.

OFFICIAL: Juventus sign Mario Mandzukic http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/6/22/8811525/official-juventus-sign-mario-mandzukic-serie-a-transfers-2015 Jun 22, 2015 It didn't long for Mario Mandzukic's move to Turin to go from simple rumor in the Italian press to something with plenty of substance behind it. Before we knew it, reports were coming out that Juventus and Atlético Madrid had agreed to a transfer fee and his move to Turin was on the fast track to being signed, sealed and delivered. Now it is official as official gets. Juventus have announced that the 29-year-old Croatian has put pen to paper on a four-year contract with the four-time defending Serie A champions. Juventus will pay Atléti a total transfer of €19 million over the next three years and a potential €2 million more in performance bonuses for the striker who spent all of about 12 months in Spain after moving from Bayern Munich last summer. JuventusFC ✔@juventusfc UFFICIALE: @MarioMandzukic9 ha firmato, da oggi è bianconero: http://juve.it/ODo1r#WelcomeMandzukic Here is all of the business speak, from Juventus' official website: Juventus Football Club S.p.A. announces that the agreement with Club Atlético Madrid SAD for the definitive acquisition of the registration rights of the player Mario Mandzukic has been finalised for a consideration of € 19 million payable in three instalments: € 7 million within 1 August 2015, € 6 million within 10 August 2016 and € 6 million within 10 August 2017. The purchase value may increase by a further maximum of € 2 million on achieving given sports performances in the course of the duration of the contract. Juventus and the player have signed a 4-year contract of employment. Mandzukic — who moved to Atlético Madrid last summer after Bayern Munich brought Robert Lewandowski on board — scored 20 goals in 37 games in all competitions last season. For a season that was considered so-so or a "struggle" by some, that's still a pretty solid tally. Obviously Manduzkic is capable of more and we all hope that is exactly what happens as his bianconero-colored adventure begins. But Mandzukic is more than just a goal scorer. He is an absolute tank, with relentless pressing and countless energy much in the same fashion as the man some folks think he's replacing, Carlos Tévez. And if this signing works out as well as that one did, then there's going to be plenty of things to like about Mario in black and white. There's just one more thing telling me that this is a good signing for all parties involved... Ahhhhhhh, that's right. How could I forget that this happened last season because of a Mandzukic goal? And let's be honest, when you can make Cristiano Ronaldo all grumpy because you just scored a goal, you're good in a lot of peoples' book — including this one right here. Welcome, Mario. May you score lots of goals just as you've done throughout much of your very good career thus far.

Liverpool Emerge As Contenders For Llorente http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/06/liverpool-emerge-as-contenders-for-juventus-striker/? Jun 22, 2015 Juventus striker Fernando Llorente is reportedly wanted by Premier League side Liverpool. The Bianconeri have signed Mario Mandzukic from Atletico Madrid which has called into question the future of Llorente, who has been linked to Wolfsburg, Borussia Moenchengladbach and Fenerbahçe. Now, according to CalcioNews24.com, Liverpool have emerged as contenders for Llorente’s signature along with Monaco, who remain favourites having offered €15 million for the 30-year-old Spaniard. The Reds are likely to lose the services of Rahim Sterling this summer, and are also keen to move Mario Balotelli onto pastures new, following his disastrous move from AC Milan last summer. In addition to the arrival of Paulo Dybala, Llorente’s playing time at the Juventus Stadium is likely to be little, and thus the Bianconeri are open to selling. Llorente made 31 Serie A appearances last season, bagging just seven goals and one assist.

Mandzukic: I’ve Always Had A Soft Spot For Juventus http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/06/mandzukic-ive-always-had-a-soft-spot-for-juventus/? Jun 22, 2015 Mario Mandzukic has had a soft spot for Juventus since he was a child, he revealed after completing a move to the Bianconeri. The Old Lady will pay Atletico Madrid €19 million, plus bonuses, for the 29-year-old Croatian striker, who has signed a four-year deal with the Bianconeri. “It’s true, I started my career at Marsonia, a club with the same colours as Juve,” Mandzukic told Juventus’ official website. “We even wore original Juventus jerseys, just with the Marsonia crest. So I’m really pleased to be wearing black and white again, and I’m happy to be at a big club like Juventus. “I hope and believe that the coach knows me well and can get the best out of me. I’m ready to do everything necessary for my teammates. “I’ll give my best and I think the coach knows me well enough for us to understand each other, and for him to get the best out of me.” Mandzukic played Juventus twice with Atletico Madrid in the Champions League group stage last season, and revealed they were a tough opponent. “It’s always tough to play against Juventus,” he went on. “They’ve always has exceptional players. I’ve played against Juve and Italy several times. “I know them all very well, they are a tough team with great quality. “That’s why I am even more delighted that I too am part of this group now. “I have nothing but the best to say about the team and the coach. “I will try to slot in as quickly as possible, because as I’ve already said I know the players quite well. I’ve played against them on several occasions, so I don’t think it [fitting in] will be a problem. “I’ll give my all on the pitch. This is my new team and I’ll fight with everything I’ve got. “I hope to score as many goals as possible, but the most important thing is that Juventus do well and we win. “I’ve had a soft spot for Juventus since I was a child because I played for a club – Marsonia – which had the same colours. So even then, I liked Juventus. “I know and I can see that it’s a massive club with a huge fan base. So I’m very happy with this new challenge, I’m ready. “We have an excellent squad and an exceptional coach. I want to be useful.”

Official: Juve sign Mandzukic for €19 million The Bianconeri have further bolstered their forward line, confirming the transfer of the Atletico Madrid forward on a four-year deal. http://www.goal.com/en/news/11/transfer-zone/2015/06/22/12964842/-? Jun 22, 2015 Serie A champions Juventus have completed the signing of striker Mario Mandzukic from Atletico Madrid for a fee of €19 million. Mandzukic, 29, only joined Atletico from Bundesliga side Bayern Munich in July 2014 and went on to score 20 goals in all competitions for the Spanish club last season. The former Wolfsburg man shunned interest from the Premier League club to put pen to paper on a four-year deal with the beaten Champions League finalists. As expected, the Croatia international passed Monday's medical leaving Juventus to conclude the €19m deal - split in instalment payments over three years - with €2m in bonuses to be potentially paid to Atletico. Mandzukic's arrival comes amid speculation that Carlos Tevez could leave Juventus, with boyhood club Boca Juniors expected to sign the Argentine after the ongoing Copa America concludes. The transfer of Mandzukic marks the second move Juve have made to bolster their forward this month line,following the signing of Pablo Dybala from Palermo for a fee that could rise to €40m.

Boca present Tevez offer http://www.football-italia.net/68143/boca-present-tevez-offer? Jun 22, 2015 Boca Juniors have reportedly presented their offer for Juventus striker Carlos Tevez, proposing €2m plus two players. The forward has decided he wants to return to his native Argentina, to represent Boca again, his boyhood club, though he still has a year on his Juventus contract. The leadership of the Xeneizes are expected to meet with their Bianconeri counterparts this week, and Tuttomercatoweb claims to have details of their initial offer. The website reports that Boca will offer €2m for Tevez, with midfielder Nicolas Colazo and striker Guido Vadala included as part of the deal. Vadala spent time with the Atalanta youth system as a child, before returning to Argentina, and made headlines last year by scoring seven goals in an youth match aged 17, while Colazo is a 24-year-old who can play central midfield or left wing. However, Tuttomercatoweb believes the Old Lady are pushing for the inclusion of 17-years-old Rodrigo Betancur in the deal.