In an interview with Sky Italia, Maurizio Arrivabene slammed the ‘ridiculous controversy’ surrounding reported Tottenham to transfer target Paulo Dybala’s contract negotiations with Juventus.
Dybala now has three months left on his contract in Turin and has yet to agree to any possible extension. The Serie A club had planned to meet with the Argentine to discuss his future with the club. They chose to postpone the meeting in order to focus on on-field issues first.
The Bianconeri are fighting for a place in next season’s Champions League through the Italian top flight. After 29 games, Massimiliano Allegri’s side is fourth in the standings. They must, at the very least, maintain their position after losing in the last 16 of this season’s edition to Villarreal.
Despite their erratic form this season, Juventus could still win Serie A this season. The record 36-time champions are seven points behind leaders AC Milan, Napoli is four, and Inter is three. The Allianz Stadium club also has a seven-point lead over Lazio in fifth place.
Juventus chairman Arrivabene claims the club’s decision to postpone contract talks with Dybala was simply to give the Argentine and all other free agents this summer the opportunity to focus on helping Allegri achieve their on-field goals.
However, according to Calciomercato, Juventus delaying contract talks has enraged Dybala, and the club risks losing the €32 million (£27 million) striker for free, with Tottenham interested in a transfer, according to 90min.
Spurs have also spoken with his representatives about a possible move to north London.
“This is turning into a ridiculous controversy,” Arrivabene said. “This is a critical time for the entire team, and it requires our undivided attention.” We’ve decided to reschedule this appointment to avoid any distractions.
“I recall that we still have five renewals going on, not just one.” There is no opposition to any of the five.”
According to Corriere Della Sera, Juventus agreed to a new contract with Dybala in October worth €8 million per season (£129k per week). In addition, he would have received €1.5 million (£1.25 million) in bonuses over the course of the contract, which runs until 2026. However, the Old Lady withdrew the offer in order to renegotiate the possible terms.
