As we enter the thick of the summer transfer window, Adrien Rabiot's future is still not set in stone. While it had been expected that he would join Barcelona after his contract expired at PSG, the Spanish club seem to have dropped their interest in the player.
Latest reports indicate that Rabiot is set to sign for Juventus, with the Italian club making a habit of picking up talented players on free transfers. The Frenchman will be joined by fellow Bosman Aaron Ramsey, while Emre Can also signed on a free in 2018.
Rabiot seems a decent fit in Turin, with Juve an effort to inject some youth into an ageing squad. He can also contribute right away, even if he will likely display signs of rust after being frozen out at PSG over the final months of the season.
Bizarrely, this deal could actually ending up costing Barcelona some money.
Sky Italy are reporting that the Spanish side could be forced to pay off the player, who signed a pre-contract agreement with the club earlier this year. Barcelona have since pulled out of the deal, but they will not get off lightly.
Rabiot will be entitled to compensation, with Barcelona pulling out of their side of the deal.
The players hinted heavily that he would join Juventus, although he did seem to leave the door open for Manchester United, telling Corriere dello Sport:
I’ve spoken with Juventus, it’s a great club where everyone would like to play.
I like Italy so much, it’s wonderful here. A demanding season awaits me. At Juventus? Juve watched me and we talked about it, but I can’t say anything.
Manchester United? It’s the same as last year, I have to decide. I’m on vacation for now. Soon you will know.
