The agent of Barcelona winger Ferran Torres admits his client was so close to joining Juventus in 2020 that he was searching for a home in Turin, while Inter and Atalanta opened talks with Alfonso Pedraza last summer.
Hector Peris Ros, co-founder and CEO of Leaderbrock, released an interview with La Gazzetta Dello Sport revealing some interesting insights about his clients, including Ferran Torres, who was close to joining Juventus two years ago.
“It was the summer of 2020, and I knew Ferran would have left Valencia for a top club. We were in advanced talks with Juventus and Fabio Paratici. Ferran was even looking for a house in Turin,” the agent said.
“However, Juventus did not satisfy Valencia financially, so Ferran joined Manchester City before returning to Barcelona.”
Ferran joined the Catalans this past January after a one and half year spell under Pep Guardiola at City. He has scored eight goals in 31 appearances with Barça.
Another client of Peris Ros, Kenan Yildiz, joined the Bianconeri last summer.
“There’s a great project here, Barcelona and Bayern also wanted him, but, personally, I felt indebted to Juventus after the Ferran Torres deal, and the lad was convinced about a move to Italy,” his agent said.
“Juventus made a significant investment in a promising young player. Kenan is learning the language and is settling in Turin.
“He is on good terms with Primavera coach Paolo Montero and can have a similar trajectory as Ferran or Pedri. I am sure his level of football is the same. However, we are in no rush. When Juventus want, he could make his debut in Serie C with the NextGen team. It will happen soon, this season.”
How about Alfonso Pedraza? The Spanish full-back is been linked with a move to Italy, with both Juventus and Inter said to be interested.
“We spoke with Inter in August, but there was not enough time to negotiate,” revealed Peris Ros.
“Atalanta asked for information more than once in the past. Pedraza has a contract with Villarreal until 2026. He does not need to leave, but the club and the player know that an offer from a top club can arrive.
“We often speak to Juventus, and we are on excellent terms. Pedraza could be an idea, let’s see.”
Today’s edition of Tuttosport confirms the Spaniard is a target for Juventus in the January transfer window.
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