Juventus have reportedly identified Bayern Munich midfielder Marcel Sabitzer as a potential summer transfer target.
Having been deducted 15 points in Serie A earlier this year, Juventus have endured a testing start to 2023 as they bid to re-establish themselves as Italy's biggest club.
On the pitch, Massimiliano Allegri's team have recorded four successive victories in the top flight and have progressed through to the last 16 of the Europa League.
With the teams above them starting to falter, Juventus are pushing to get back into contention for Europa League and Champions League qualification, an important factor when it comes to their transfer business in the summer.
A number of players are due to be out of contract, with key man Adrien Rabiot one of the players who may depart Turin ahead of 2023-24.
© Reuters
If that proves to be the case, Juventus would require a replacement for the France international, leaving them to scour the market for alternatives.
According to Calciomercatoweb, Juventus hold a strong interest in securing a deal for Sabitzer.
Having only remained as a backup option during his 18 months at Bayern, the Austria international was allowed to move to Manchester United on loan in January.
Since then, Sabitzer has earned regular game time, making three starts and two substitute outings during his first month at Old Trafford.
© Reuters
With the arrangement a straight loan, the 28-year-old will return to his parent club, where he has a contract until 2025, in the summer.
Nevertheless, it appears likely that Sabitzer will be on the market with compatriot Konrad Laimer already said to have agreed to move to the Allianz Arena on a free transfer from RB Leipzig.
While United may look to sign Sabitzer on a permanent deal if he proves to be asset to the first-team squad, head coach Erik ten Hag has insisted that it is 'too early' to make a decision.
Juventus have been operating with one midfielder less this season due to the long-term injury of Paul Pogba, but the World Cup winner made his first appearance of the campaign versus Torino on Tuesday night.
Darren Plant
