Sassuolo president Giovanni Carnevali suggested that the absence of Domenico Berardi is like ‘Manchester City without Haaland’ and he gave some hints about the summer transfer window.
The Neroverdi have been known in recent years for developing young talents before selling them to bigger clubs, with recent examples being Giacomo Raspadori’s move to Napoli and Gianluca Scamacca’s transfer to West Ham last summer.
Things are not expected to be different this summer, with Davide Frattesi destined to be sold by Sassuolo. Armand Lauriente has also emerged on the scene and started to attract attention from a number of clubs.
Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Carnevali first discussed the importance of Berardi to Sassuolo.
“It’s a shame not to have Berardi against Juve. Sassuolo without Domenico is a bit like Manchester City without Haaland. Every time he’s missing, you can feel it. But we want to play a great game.”
He touched on the interest in midfielder Frattesi.
“We know that Juve and not only Juve like Frattesi, but there will be time to talk about it in more depth.
“For sure Davide is ready for a big club. And, as always, if he leaves, we hope to sell him in Italy. But lately we have sold Scamacca and Traorè to the Premier League.”
The Sassuolo president also commented on the future of talented winger Lauriente.
“He’s worth a lot, but I hope that over time his valuation can grow even more. For his characteristics, I wouldn’t be surprised if offers arrive from England. But right now, I don’t even think about selling him.”
He spoke about former Sassuolo forward Scamacca, who was sold to West Ham last summer.
“I haven’t spoken to Gianluca, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he returned to Italy. For Juve or any other Italian top clubs, he would be an opportunity. There aren’t many number nines with Scamacca’s characteristics in Serie A.”
Finally, Carnevali discussed Juventus and their relationship with Sassuolo.
“We hope Vlahovic will recover against Sporting, Juve are not the favourites to win the Europa League but they are a great team and can do it.
“I’ve always dreamed of bringing Chiellini to Sassuolo and I haven’t given up hope, maybe after the US he’ll want to have one last dance with us…
“Owner Squinzi, who had a soft spot for talent, would have liked Di Maria.”