Manchester United's path to Nemanja Matic cleared as Juventus turn to PSG midfielder Blaise Matuidi

The Italian champions had been willing to rival United for the Serbian midfielder

Miguel Delaney
Chief Football Writer
Thursday 27 July 2017 17:14 BST
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Jose Mourinho is looking to add former charge Nemanja Matic to his midfield
Jose Mourinho is looking to add former charge Nemanja Matic to his midfield

Juventus have turned their attention to Paris Saint-Germain’s Blaise Matuidi as they look to sign a defensive midfielder, further clearing Manchester United’s path for Chelsea’s Nemanja Matic.

The Italian champions have been willing to rival United in the pursuit of the 28-year-old Serbian since it became apparent Antonio Conte was willing to sell after the signing of Monaco’s Tiemoue Bakayoko, and the Stamford Bridge hierarchy would much prefer to sell abroad.

Matic has made it aware to the involved parties that his first preference is Old Trafford, however, and that has led to Juventus reviving their interest in Matuidi as first choice.

The Serie A side had thought they could clinch a deal for the 30-year-old French international last summer, only for difficulties to arise in negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain.

With the French club now looking to further reshape their squad this summer after failing to win the title last season, Juventus feel Matuidi could be easier to get. He would also be significantly cheaper than Matic, although there is currently a £10m difference between their £15m valuation of Matuidi and PSG.

Mourinho meanwhile wants to secure the purchase of Matic for the start of the season, having initially requested for him to arrive before the pre-season tour of the United States.

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