Champions League finalists Juventus are expecting Real Madrid to make an offer for midfielder Arturo Vidal, according to the Seria A club’s general manager Giuseppe Marotta.
Vidal has been linked with a move to Madrid in the past although the 10-time Champions League winners have never actually made an offer for him.
But with Rafa Benitez now at the helm, Marotta says the Old Lady are prepared to receive a phone call. The new Los Blancos boss spent the last two seasons in Italy at Napoli and is known to be a keen admirer of the Chile international.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Marotta said: “Real Madrid did not make an attempt to sign him but it is probable that Real will do this in the future because Benitez knows Arturo very well.”
Los Blancos are likely to be on the lookout for a new midfielder this summer after Sami Khedira’s departure to the Turin side leave the squad short – particularly in defensive midfield. Question marks also hang over the future of Asier Illarramendi, who has failed to progress as much as was hoped following his arrival from Real Sociedad two years ago.
The club did confirm last week that Brazilian midfielder Casemiro will remain at the club next season after spending a year on loan at Porto.
It’s a good choice for Real Madrid to pursue either Arturo or Verratti.