Teun Koopmeiners was expected to take part in the UEFA Super Cup against Real Madrid in Warsaw today, but instead, he is still in Italy waiting for clearance to finalize his move to Juventus. There hasn’t been any official confirmation yet, and it seems unlikely to come in the next 24 hours, as Atalanta is focused on their most critical match of the season. However, once Atalanta secures a replacement, the deal could be completed shortly.
The hold-up is more about finding a substitute than financial negotiations, as both clubs have reportedly reached a consensus on a transfer fee of €50 million, with an additional €5 million in bonuses. This amount is lower than Atalanta’s initial demand of €60 million but higher than Juventus’s initial willingness to spend €40-45 million. It’s a significant financial commitment for Juventus, but they believe that Koopmeiners is the missing link in midfield under coach Thiago Motta, especially after adding Douglas Luiz and Thuram Junior to the squad.
Motta is eager to have Koopmeiners available for the start of the upcoming Serie A season, even though time is tight. However, he has other concerns as well. He needs wingers to complete his roster, in addition to seeking a defender. The loan move for Pierre Kalulu is reportedly close, pending the player’s approval. Meanwhile, while negotiations for Nico Gonzalez are slowing down due to Fiorentina’s need for a replacement, Juventus is moving forward rapidly for Francisco Conceiçao from Porto, hoping to secure a loan deal.
Atalanta’s coach Gian Piero Gasperini commented on the situation surrounding Koopmeiners: “Teun is the victim here; he has missed out on the opportunity to play in this match. I feel sorry that I couldn’t persuade him to avoid getting caught up in these market issues. He’s a healthy young player whom we value for his contributions.” Gasperini acknowledged the complexities involved and expressed hope that Koopmeiners could be recovered for the team.
Reports suggest that a transfer has already been largely decided. After initial resistance, Atalanta has recognized the player’s desire to join Juventus. Thanks to the diligent efforts of intermediaries, discussions have picked up pace over recent days. Juventus is keen to wrap up this deal within the next two to three days. They hope Atalanta can find a replacement for Matt O’Riley of Celtic soon, which would clear the path for Koopmeiners’s move.
In terms of attacking reinforcements, Gonzalez remains a top target for Juventus. The player has agreed to a move, and initial talks with Fiorentina have taken place, with a proposed fee around €30 million. However, there are reports of increased resistance from Fiorentina president Rocco Commisso, especially after fan protests against the sale. The club is currently seeking a replacement for Gonzalez, which has put negotiations on hold.
Meanwhile, Giuntoli is pursuing Conceiçao Junior. He is working with the player’s agent, who also represents Cristiano Ronaldo, to negotiate a loan package with Porto. There has also been interest in Sporting CP’s Marcus Edwards, as Juventus aims to secure two wingers before the Serie A kickoff on August 19.
