There has never been a clean break between Juventus and Manchester United’s winger. More a thread quietly tugged on across the seasons. That persistent interest may now turn into concrete negotiation, according to Gazzetta, as Juventus prepare a fresh approach under new general director Damien Comolli.

Juventus attempted to land the player last summer and again in January 2024, but Chelsea’s swift loan deal ultimately took him elsewhere. Now, a year later, the conditions are more favourable. Manchester United do not see the winger as part of their long-term plans and are increasingly open to finding a workable exit strategy before the player’s contract expires in 2026.

Direct talks and intermediary-led conversations have already begun. A reduced wage package from Juventus would be offset by offering the player a significant role in Turin. The 25-year-old, for his part, continues to view the club as “prestigious” and remains open to the move, provided agreement can be found.

Comolli’s arrival changes the dynamic
The arrival of Comolli has smoothed communication lines between the player’s representatives and Juventus. According to Gazzetta, the winger’s agents have remained in contact with the Serie A club throughout the year. That continuity, bolstered by the player’s desire to leave Manchester, could be crucial in progressing the deal.

Interest is not limited to Juventus. Napoli, led by ex-Juve executive Giovanni Manna, also have an eye on the player. But the Bianconeri remain frontrunners, especially if talks with United continue constructively.

Swap deal involving Vlahovic under consideration
Another layer to the negotiations may involve Dusan Vlahovic. The Serbian forward, also under contract until 2026, is seen as a possible makeweight in a player exchange. United have long admired Vlahovic, and while the player has rejected moves to Turkey and Saudi Arabia, he may be tempted by a Premier League move provided he receives assurances of a regular starting role.

Whether either party is prepared to advance discussions on a swap remains unclear, but sources suggest the idea has not been ruled out and could gain traction if talks stall on straight transfer terms.

Douglas Luiz situation offers further Premier League subplot
Meanwhile, Douglas Luiz remains a name of interest for United. A move in January was under consideration, and although nothing materialised, the player’s reduced role under Igor Tudor could re-open that conversation. United have long sought midfield reinforcement, and Luiz’s familiarity with the Premier League keeps him in contention.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis
For Manchester United fans, this report lands somewhere between déjà vu and frustration. Once again, the club are inching towards a deal involving a player who has never truly delivered at Old Trafford. It may well be the right time to move on, but many supporters will feel the club’s handling of this situation has lacked clarity for too long.

There’s also the lingering question about value. A swap involving Vlahovic sounds logical on paper — two high-profile players with stalled momentum, contracts expiring in 2026, and clubs willing to negotiate. But scepticism is warranted. United’s recent record with big-name forwards suggests that unless the Serbian is truly committed and properly utilised, it could be another high-risk move with limited reward.

Supporters will also be wary of the club’s inability to close deals quickly. While Juventus are reportedly proactive, United often appear reactive. That has to change if the rebuild under the current regime is to gain credibility. Whether this Sancho saga ends with a swap, a sale, or a stand-off, United must start taking firmer control of such narratives.

And as for Douglas Luiz, it is difficult to see a scenario where United’s interest becomes anything more than background noise unless a clear midfield strategy is finally put in place.

Eplindex.com