Mario Mandžukić

[Socrates 7962]

[Socrates 7962]

 

Juve press on Cavani, Mandzukic

http://www.football-italia.net/67479/juve-press-cavani-mandzukic

Jun 7, 2015
 
Juventus are reportedly pressing on Paris Saint Germain's Edinson Cavani and Atletico Madrid's Mario Mandzukic.
 
Having already scooped Paulo Dybala from Palermo, the Bianconeri are looking for another striker to flank the Argentinian.
 
Il Corriere dello Sport is running the line that Cavani is currently their first choice, but PSG are unlikely to make it an easy deal having paid €64m for the player themselves in 2013.
 
Alternatively, the 29-year-old Mandzukic is an option that meets the Old Lady's favour, though they may have to beat some Serie A competition as Milan already expressed an interest in the player.
 
Il Corriere reports that the Bianconeri have also not forgotten about Sassuolo's Simone Zaza and Domenico Berardi.
 
According to the publication, Neroverdi executive Giovanni Carnevali was spotted in Berlin yesterday evening, where Juventus lost their Champions League final 3-1 to Barcelona.

[Socrates 7962]

Mandzukic tops post-Tevez list

http://www.football-italia.net/67738/mandzukic-tops-post-tevez-list?

Jun 13, 2015

If Carlos Tevez does return to Boca Juniors, Juventus will get one from Mario Mandzukic, Robin van Persie, Edinson Cavani and Radamel Falcao.

Tevez is a lifelong Boca fan and confirmed he will end his career in Buenos Aires, but it remains to be seen whether he’ll wait until his contract expires in June 2016.

According to Tuttosport, Juve are increasingly irritated by the saga and want a definitive answer by next week.

They’ve already signed Paulo Dybala from Palermo for approximately €40m, but another top striker is needed if Tevez goes.

The main target appears to be Atletico Madrid’s Croatia international Mandzukic, who scored in last night’s 1-1 draw against Italy.

He also had a penalty saved by Juventus captain Gigi Buffon during that Euro 2016 qualifier and could be secured for around €25m.

However, if Mandzukic heads to Manchester United, then Juve can go for unsettled Old Trafford figure Van Persie instead.

United also released Falcao from his season-long loan deal, not taking up their option to buy from Monaco.

Now Falcao is on the verge of joining Chelsea, but it’s reported Juventus are still in talks for a possible loan with option to buy.

Far less likely options are PSG striker Cavani, who seems ready to stay in Paris if Zlatan Ibrahimovic goes to Milan, and Napoli’s Gonzalo Higuain.

[Socrates 7962]

Juventus Face Challenge From Zenit St Petersburg For Mandzukic

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/06/juventus-face-challenge-from-zenit-st-petersburg-for-atletico-madrid-forward/?

Jun 13, 2015

Juventus could face competition from Russian side Zenit St Petersburg as they look to land Atletico Madrid forward Mario Mandzukic.

La Vecchia Signora have been linked with Mandzukic despite the club’s management not being fully convinced by the idea of the transfer, but the move might not happen altogether due to the serious interest being shown by the Russian champions.

Mundo Deportivo are reporting that Zenit could make an offer of around €27 million for the 29-year-old which Juventus would have to beat.

Mandzukic has also been linked with a move to English Premier League side Manchester United, as well as Juventus’ rivals AC Milan in the summer.

The Croatian international joined Atletico Madrid from Bayern Munich at the start of the 2014/15 season and has scored 20 times in 43 appearances for the club.

[Socrates 7962]

Juve secure Mandzukic

http://www.football-italia.net/67776/juve-secure-mandzukic?

Jun 14, 2015

Mario Mandzukic reportedly already agreed to a Juventus transfer, but Atletico Madrid remains to be persuaded.

The Bianconeri had their eyes set on the Croatian as their first choice to replace Carlos Tevez, and it seems a deal could well be found.

According to Calciomercato.it, director general Beppe Marotta already secured the player's agreement to a transfer.

Mandzukic, who was spotted talking with Juve's Gianluigi Buffon after Friday's international game in Croatia, is still under contract with Atletico Madrid and the Spanish club haven't given their green light yet.

The transfer may be smoothed should Tevez agree to a move to Madrid.

The Argentinian Bianconero is also being followed by Boca Juniors and Paris Saint-Germain and is believed to be valued at €6-7m.

[Socrates 7962]

Allegri: I like Oscar and Mandzukic

The Juventus coach has admitted he would be interested in signing
the Brazil attacking midfielder and the Croatia centre-forward.

http://www.goal.com/en-za/news/4682/transfer-zone/2015/06/15/12735622/-?

Jun 15, 2015

Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri has expressed his admiration for Chelsea star Oscar and Atletico Madrid striker Mario Mandzukic .

The Bianconeri look set to spend big this summer on the back of their run to the final of last season's Champions League and have already completed a €32 million deal with Palermo for Paulo Dybala that could rise to €40m including add-ons and bonuses.

Allegri has admitted, though, that he is particularly keen on a new No.10 as well as an old-school centre-forward.

When asked by the La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport if he likes Oscar, the Bianconeri boss replied: "Very much. He is one of those players who can make a difference in Europe.

"I like Oscar, but I also like Isco, Javier Pastore, Angel Di Maria, Toni Kroos - all the best players from the Champions League.

"And Mandzukic? There are not many centre-forwards in potential transfer circulation. Mandzukic, Gonzalo Higuain, a few others.

"Mandzukic is a good man for relaunching attacks."

However, Allegri insisted his interest in Mandzukic does not mean that the club would consider cashing in on Alvaro Morata, who had a fine first season in Italy following last summer's switch from Real Madrid.

Indeed, the former Milan coach says he holds the Spain international in the highest esteem and that the Old Lady must try to build a team around the 22-year-old striker and fellow forward Kingsley Coman.

"If we were to sell Alvaro, we'd pocket €70-€80 million," he added. "That's the current value of Morata.

"I believe that Juve must count on him and also Coman, another youngster of an exceptional level who only needs a little time to explode."

[Socrates 7962]

Wolfsburg And Juventus Compete For Mandzukic

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/06/wolfsburg-and-juventus-compete-for-atletico-madrid-striker/?

 
Jun 15, 2015

Juventus may find hopes of securing the signature of Atletico Madrid striker Mario Mandzukic dashed by emerging interest from Wolfsburg.

The Serie A champions are contending with prevalent doubts over the futures of attacking trio Alvaro Morata, Fernando Llorente and Carlos Tevez, with the Argentine of the three looking particularly likely to move on.

According to AS, Croatian international Mandzukic is top of the Bianconeri’s list to bolster their forward line ahead of the new season, but they also state German Bundesliga outfit Wolfsburg are now making a major play for his services.

The 29-year-old left the Wolves for Bayern Munich in 2012, prior to a switch to Spain two years later, and could return to his old stomping ground in place of giant Dutchman Bas Dost, who is expected to join English Premier League club Newcastle United in the coming days.

[Socrates 7962]

Mandzukic agent: ‘No reason to leave’

http://www.football-italia.net/67906/mandzukic-agent-‘no-reason-leave’?

Jun 17, 2015

The agent of Juventus target Mario Mandzukic says there is ‘no reason’ for the striker to leave Atletico Madrid this summer.

The Croatian international is believed to be the Bianconeri’s first choice replacement if Carlos Tevez joins Boca Juniors, with some reports indicating that personal terms have already been agreed.

However, the player’s representative has dismissed talk of an exit, insisting his client is happy in Madrid.

“In the first year in a new country it takes time to settle in,” Ivan Cvetkovic told Tportal.

“The fans are now attached to him, and Mario has adapted to the city and to the club. There’s no reason for him to leave and not respect his contract.

“Of course, in football everything is in a constant state of flux, and you never know what could happen, but this is not the time to speculate.”

Mandzukic scored just 12 league goals after joining Atleti in the summer, but his agent insists it has been a positive season.

“In recent weeks Mandzukic has been unhappy, because he hasn’t scored more goals, which has affected him and also Atletico Madrid.

“Still, this season we saw a fantastic Barcelona, but the Colchoneros still managed to secure qualification for the Champions League and win the Spanish Super Cup.

“So there’s no reason to be totally dissatisfied.”

[Socrates 7962]

Mario Mandzukic targeted by Juventus
ahead of possible Tevez exit

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/story/2495714/mandzukic-targeted-by-juventus-ahead-of-possible-tevez-exit?

Jun 17, 2015

Massimiliano Allegri has confirmed his interest in Atletico Madrid striker Mario Mandzukic amid reports Juventus are closing in on the striker's signature.

Tuttosport reports that Juventus have reached an agreement with Mandzukic after AS claimed that the Serie A champions had approached his agent.

AS says that Juve have turned to the Croatia international after failing to land either of Paris Saint-Germain's Edinson Cavani or Napoli's Gonzalo Higuain.

"I like Mandzukic, he is a great striker for a team that continually attacks," Allegri told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

Mandzukic could replace Carlos Tevez should the Argentine complete a return to his former club Boca Juniors.

"If Tevez goes, we have located the player that we want in his place and he is called Mandzukic. We have positive reports about the Croatian," said Juve's general manager Giuseppe Marotta.

He added regarding Tevez: "If he does not stay at Juventus, it will be to go to play for Boca."

Mandzukic signed for Atletico from Bayern Munich last summer and 12 La Liga goals in 28 appearances in his debut season.

[Socrates 7962]

Mandzukic Expected To Choose Juventus Over Manchester United

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/06/atletico-madrid-striker-expected-to-choose-juventus-over-manchester-united/?

Jun 17, 2015

Atletico Madrid striker Mario Mandzukic would reportedly rather join Juventus than Manchester United this summer as both clubs pursue his signature.

The 29-year-old, whose current contract with the Colchoneros is set to expire in June 2018, has been linked with a transfer away from the Spanish club in recent weeks despite only playing one season with them and it seems like he may now have a future in Turin, especially with Carlos Tevez expected to make his departure to Boca Juniors soon.

According to the Daily Express, both Juventus and Manchester United have confirmed their interest in the Croatian international, though the striker has apparently already begun talks with the Bianconeri based on his own preference to join the reigning Serie A champions over the Red Devils.

Mandzukic, who arrived at Atletico Madrid from Bayern Munich in July 2014, managed to score 12 goals and provide five assists in his 28 Primera Division appearances last term.

[Socrates 7962]

Juventus fly in for Mandzukic

http://www.football-italia.net/67944/juventus-fly-mandzukic?

Jun 18, 2015

Juventus director general Beppe Marotta will reportedly fly to Madrid tomorrow, to negotiate for Atletico striker Mario Mandzukic.

The Bianconeri are in the market for an experienced forward, with Carlos Tevez seemingly on the verge of returning to Boca Juniors.

Despite his agent’s claims to the contrary, it has been reported that the Old Lady have agreed a contract with Croatian international Mandzukic.

Calciomercato is now reporting that Marotta will be in Madrid tomorrow, to present an offer to Atleti, believed to be around €15m.

Mandzukic joined the Spanish side last summer from Bayern Munich, and scored 20 goals in 42 games across all compeitions.

[Socrates 7962]

Croat Heads Juventus’ Shortlist Of Tevez Replacements

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/06/croat-heads-juventus-shortlist-of-tevez-replacements/?

Jun 18, 2015

Juventus have already begun thinking about life after Carlos Tevez, with the Bianconeri lining up a host of potential replacements for the departing striker.

Tevez’s return to Boca Juniors seems but a formality now, after having expressed his desire to return home and Juventus sporting director Giuseppe Marotta acquiescing to the Argentine’s wishes.

Juventus have begun looking into potential alternatives, with Mario Mandzukic, Edinson Cavani heading the Bianconeri’s shortlist according to Tuttosport. The Turin-based media add that Robin Van Persie and Stevan Jovetic are also amongst the candidates.

Mandzukic looks the likeliest of deals however, with Juventus looking set to meet Atletico Madrid’s €23 million valuation and the player’s €4 million per year wages according to Tuttosport. There would already be a medical scheduled on Monday for the Croatian striker, according to Sky Sport Italia.

The 29-year-old striker arrived at Atletico Madrid just last season, scoring 12 goals in La Liga.

[Socrates 7962]

Juventus sign Mandzukic

http://www.football-italia.net/67966/reports-juventus-sign-mandzukic?

Jun 18, 2015

It’s reported Juventus have agreed to sign Mario Mandzukic from Atletico Madrid for €18m.

The Bianconeri were reported to have agreed a contract with the Croatian international, with director general Beppe Marotta flying to Madrid to convince his club.

La Stampa, Gianluca Di Marzio and giornalaccio rosa dello Sport are now reporting that an agreement has been reached, with Mandzukic set to join for a fee of €18m.

The fee will be made up of €15m up front, with €3m to be added on in bonuses.

Sky believe that the 29-year-old has signed a four-year contract with the Old Lady, earning around €3.5m per season.

As reported earlier today, Marotta will fly to Madrid to complete the deal, but it appears everything has already been agreed, with only official confirmation yet to come.

The former Bayern Munich man is likely to replace Carlos Tevez, who is on the verge of returning to Boca Juniors.

[Socrates 7962]

Juventus, Atlético Madrid reach
agreement for Mario Mandzukic

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/6/18/8793419/mario-mandzukic-juventus-atletico-madrid-serie-a-transfer-rumors-2015

Jun 18, 2015

Like a lot of things in the footballing world (or anything else, for that matter), one move is connected to another. Take last summer, for example. Antonio Conte stepped down as Juventus manager, so Max Allegri was brought in as his replacement. It was one piece of news quickly followed by another without much time to even think the club was going in a completely different direction.

We can say the same when it comes to remaking Juventus' attack.

Just one day after the reported exit of Carlos Tévez, Juventus has agreed to a deal for Atlético Madrid striker Mario Madndzukic, according to multiple Italian media outlets. Gianluca Di Marzio, La Stampa and the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport are all reporting that the fee to bring Madnzukic to Turin is €18 million. This comes two days after Juventus and the 29-year-old Croatia international reportedly agreed to personal terms, which will see him earn a yearly salary of €3.5 million for four seasons.

After just one season in La Liga, Mario Mandzukic is on his way to Italy. Juventus had reached an agreement with the striker on a contract and now Marotta reached an agreement with Atletico today in Madrid. With Tevez is on his way back to Argentina, Juventus acted quickly to add a new striker.

(Source: Gianluca Di Marzio)

So as one striker looks set to leave Turin for a Spanish-speaking country, another one arrives from a Spanish-speaking country. Mandzukic probably isn't the direct replacement for Tévez. That's why Juventus shelled out €32 million and sent it to Palermo for a talented young Argentine by the name of Paulo Dybala. But when you think about the possibility of a starting attack that will feature Dyhala, Mandzukic and Álvaro Morata, well then there's plenty of good things potentially ahead.

And now that Mandzukic is reportedly on board, we can start to think how Max Allegri will plug this new toy into a side that is coming off an appearance in the Champions League final. If anything, the attack will be looking a lot different outside of Morata continuing to be awesome and rocking sunglasses from time to time.

[Socrates 7962]

Juventus to sign Mandzukic in €18 million deal

The striker will undergo a medical on Monday and end his one-year stay at Atletico Madrid.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/11/transfer-zone/2015/06/19/12871642/-?

Jun 19, 2015

Atletico Madrid striker Mario Mandzukic is on the verge of joining Juventus for €18 million and will have a medical on Monday, Goal understands.

Atletico boss Diego Simeone hinted on Tuesday that the Croatia international could leave after claiming the club would decide the player's future rather than him.

Juventus have since emerged as the frontrunners to sign Mandzukic after Carlos Tevez informed the club of his desire to return to Boca Juniors.

The Champions League runners-up have moved quickly to fill the expected void by agreeing a basic €15m fee, with a further €3m in add-ons.

Juve have also agreed personal terms with Mandzukic, who will earn €3.5m a year after tax with an option to extend the deal by an extra 12 months until June 2019.

All that is left to finalise the move is for the former Bayern Munich attacker to complete a medical, which he is expected to do early next week.

The Bianconeri have already spent €32m on Paulo Dybala from Palermo, while Sami Khedira has joined the club on a free transfer after leaving Real Madrid.

[Socrates 7962]

Allegri: Mandzukic is a proven goalscorer

The Juventus head coach is "very happy" the striker is set to join
his side from Atletico Madrid and is expecting goals from the Croatian.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/11/transfer-zone/2015/06/19/12893222/-?

Jun 19, 2015

Massimiliano Allegri has confirmed Mario Mandzukic is set to join Juventus and spoke of his confidence that the striker will deliver goals in Italy.

The Croatia international is nearing an €18 million move to the Serie A champions from Atletico Madrid, just one year after arriving in Spain from Bayern Munich.

Mandzukic is seen as a potential replacement to Carlos Tevez - who could be set to return to Argentina with Boca Juniors - and Allegri is optimistic the 29-year-old will be a success in Serie A, having already proven his worth with his previous clubs.

"We must not try to replace Tevez but rather sign players and see based on them what way we would like to play," Allegri told Sky Italia. "We have Alvaro Morata, Paulo Dybala and Mandzukic is arriving too.

"Mandzukic is a player who has scored goals in every league he has played in. He has character and is a striker of international level who will do well in Italy.

"We took him because we wanted him, he is a great player and I am very happy with his arrival."

[Socrates 7962]

Mandzukic set for Juve medical

http://www.football-italia.net/68091/mandzukic-set-juve-medical?

Jun 21, 2015

Atletico Madrid striker Mario Mandzukic is expected to have his Juventus medical in Turin today or tomorrow.

The transfer has been agreed for several days at a reported fee of €26m and Coach Max Allegri spoke about the Croatian as a done deal.

“It’s not that we have to replace Carlod Tevez, but rather sign players and evaluate the playing style,” said Allegri.

“Mandzukic has arrived, we have Simone Zaza, Kingsley Coman, Alvaro Morata and Paulo Dybala – all young players of great quality.

“Mandzukic scored goals in every League, has strong character, is of an international level and will do well. We signed Mandzukic because we specifically wanted him. He’s a great player and I am very happy.”

Sky Sport Italia claim the matter could finally be officialised today or at the latest tomorrow, as Mandzukic is expected to fly in for a medical and then put pen to paper.

[Socrates 7962]

Mandzukic lands in Turin ahead of Juventus move

The striker has arrived in Italy as he prepares to complete his move to the Bianconeri.

http://www.goal.com/en-za/news/4682/transfer-zone/2015/06/21/12941492/-?

Jun 21, 2015

Mario Mandzukic has landed in Turin ahead of sealing an €18 million move to Juventus.

The Atletico Madrid striker has spent just one season in Spain after moving to the Vicente Calderon from Bayern Munich last summer.

But with Carlos Tevez informing Juve of his desire to return to Argentina, the Bianconeri swiftly made the Croatia international their priority signing.

Mandzukic will undergo a medical on Monday, with Juve set to pay a basic €15m fee, with a further €3m in add-ons.

The 29-year-old will earn €3.5m a year after tax and will sign a three-year deal, with the option of a further 12 months.


MarioMandzukic9 has just touched down in Turin! Welcome, Mario!

[Socrates 7962]

Mandzukic: 'Juve my new home'

http://www.football-italia.net/68114/mandzukic-juve-my-new-home?

Jun 21, 2015

Mario Mandzukic told Juventus fans he will “give my best in my new home” after arriving for his medical.

The Atletico Madrid striker arrived in Turin this evening and spoke to the club website.

“I feel very good, the city is nice and I was here two or three times to play. It’s a nice city and I hope I will be happy here,” said the Croatia international.

He was asked if he had a message for the new supporters.

“I can only say that I will do my best. I will fight for my new team. I know Juventus have great supporters, that is why I am happy.

“It is now my new home and don’t worry, I will give my best.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

Why Mario Mandzukic Alone Cannot
Replace Carlos Tevez at Juventus

 

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2502406-why-mario-mandzukic-alone-cannot-replace-carlos-tevez-at-juventus?

 
Jun 22, 2015

There is little doubt remaining over just how important Carlos Tevez has been for Juventus over the past two seasons. Since arriving in Turin in August 2013, the Argentinian striker has been the club’s best and most influential player, winning games single-handedly and lifting the performances of those around him.

As discussed in this previous column, losing him would be a major blow to the Bianconeri, but the career of the 31-year-old has taught us it is futile to stand in his way once he has made the decision it is time to move on.

Clearly ready for a return to his homeland and former club Boca Juniors, per Selene Scarsi of ESPN, Juventus have seemingly moved quickly to secure Mario Mandzukic as a replacement.

@MarioMandzukic9 is currently undergoing his medical ahead of a proposed move to Juventus

On Monday morning, the Croatian was pictured arriving for his medical with the Turin giants, with La Stampa reporting that the club have agreed a deal worth around €18 million with Atletico Madrid (h/t Football Italia).

The move was also confirmed by Massimiliano Allegri, but the 47-year-old was eager to point out that it will not fall on one man to plug the gap left by the departure of their leading scorer, instead believing that an array of options will be enough to continue their success.

"We don't have to replace him. What we have to do is sign players and study the way they play," the coach told Sky Sport Italia (h/t FourFourTwo). “Mandzukic is on his way and we have Zaza, Coman, Morata and Dybala, young players with a lot of quality.”

While Allegri may well be proved correct in his analysis—as he has been so often since arriving at Juventus last summer—there is little doubt that all eyes will be on Mandzukic when the 2015/16 gets underway. In that same interview, the coach offered a little insight into why the club had targeted the 29-year-old as he went on to say:
Mandzukic has scored everywhere he has played. He has a lot of personality and plays at international level. He'll do a good job. We signed him because he was the player we wanted. I'm really happy because that was our choice.

Looking back on the player’s career so far shows just how accurate that assessment is, as he had already netted 100 career goals before his €13 million move to Bayern Munich in the summer of 2012.

He stayed with the Bavarian giants for two seasons, lifting the Bundesliga title twice and helping the team win the Champions League as part of their memorable treble in 2013. Adding the German and UEFA Super Cups, as well as the FIFA World Club Cup, Mandzukic would score 48 times in just 88 appearances before leaving for Spain.

OptaFranz @OptaFranz
29 - Mario Mandzukic scored 53 goals in 110 apps in the Bundesliga for Bayern and Wolfsburg, today he celebrates his 29th birthday.

Later, he told Sportske Novosti that he realised “there was no future for me” at the Allianz Arena, adding that Pep Guardiola “didn’t treat me with respect,” (h/t Football Espana). With Atleti, he bagged 20 goals in all competitions for the third consecutive season, his playing style meshing perfectly with Diego Simeone’s approach to the game.

Like Tevez, Mandzukic will bring non-stop running, a tireless work ethic and incredible stamina to Juventus, but the two men are very different players. The Argentinian is a much more creative player, weighing in with eight assists in 2014/15. Statistics from Squawka show he also laid on 61 scoring chances for his team-mates last season.

The same source shows Mandzukic, whose strengths clearly lie in other facets of the game, created just 23 such opportunities. Clearly not likely to beat his defender with a flash of skill like Tevez, the Croatian will rely on those around him to give him an opening, which he will hope to take advantage of with his clinical finishing ability.

As Allegri noted, one man cannot replace Carlos Tevez. However, in Mario Mandzukic, Juventus have found one who can score goals at a similar rate, and they will certainly need that next season.

[Socrates 7962]

 

Mandzukic undergoes medical ahead of Juventus move

The Croatia international has arrived in Turin as he prepares to sign a three-year
contract with the Italian champions, with the option of another season.

 

http://www.goal.com/en/news/11/transfer-zone/2015/06/22/12941432/-?

 
Jun 22, 2015

Atletico Madrid striker Mario Mandzukic is on the verge of completing his proposed €18 million move to Juventus.

The 29-year-old arrived in Turin on Sunday evening and underwent a medical with the Bianconeri's medical team the following morning.

JuventusFC ✔@juventusfcen
.@MarioMandzukic9 has just touched down in Turin! Welcome, Mario!

Juve are set to pay a basic €15m fee for Mandzukic, with a further €3m in add-ons, while the attacker will pen a three-year deal worth €3.5m after tax per annum, with the option of another season.

The Croatia international has spent just one season in Spain, after moving to the Vicente Calderon from Bayern Munich last summer.

However, with Carlos Tevez informing Juve of his desire to return to Argentina, the Bianconeri have turned to Mandzukic, who cannot wait to pull on the Juve jersey.

"I like Turin a lot," he wrote on Twitter. "I've come here twice to play and I hope to be happy here.

"A message for the fans? I can only say that I will give my all.

"I have always given the maximum at every club I've had and I will fight for my new jersey.

"I know that Juve have a great support and I'm really happy about this.

"This is my new home. Don't worry, I'll give everything."

[Socrates 7962]

 

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.

[Socrates 7962]

 

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.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

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.

[Socrates 7962]

 

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.