It is reported in Italy that Juventus informed Leonardo Bonucci he is no longer part of the squad and is excluded from their pre-season tour.
There had already been rumours this morning in Tuttomercatoweb and the Corriere dello Sport that Bonucci might not be travelling with Max Allegri’s side for their tour of the United States.
He was unconvinced, instead determined to win back his place in the team, or at least act as captain from the bench and inside the locker room.
However, now La Gazzetta dello Sport and multiple other sources all insist that new director Cristiano Giuntoli personally informed Bonucci today that he is not part of their plans and will be left out as a technical decision.
That effectively means he will not even be registered as a Juventus player and won’t be allowed to participate in training with the rest of the squad either.
It forces the 36-year-old to either find another club or take early retirement, with a contract running to June 2024.
He has been linked with a drop down to Serie B for Sampdoria, while Newcastle United and MLS were also mentioned as potential options.
Sources inform Football Italia the approach is being taken to several other unwanted players too, including Weston McKennie and Arthur Melo.
Meanwhile, Danilo is the new Juventus captain.
Finally getting the treatment Bonucci deserves! Serie B!