Danilo’s future at Juventus appears increasingly uncertain as the Brazilian defender is expected to be left out of the squad for the upcoming Italian Super Cup in Saudi Arabia. This development signals a growing rift between the player and the club, hinting at an imminent departure.
According to recent reports from Calciomercato, Thiago Motta has made the decision not to include Danilo in the team’s roster for the match against Milan, and potentially for subsequent games against Inter or Atalanta. This choice comes despite Danilo being fit and available for selection, suggesting deeper implications for his future at the club.
The exclusion from such a significant tournament fuels speculation about Danilo’s potential transfer in the upcoming winter market. Napoli has emerged as the frontrunner to secure his services, with the defender’s contract set to expire in June. A January transfer represents Juventus’s last opportunity to monetize this valuable asset.
Antonio Conte’s Napoli is showing strong interest in Danilo, viewing him as a key reinforcement for their defence, especially given the departure of Buongiorno and the potential exits of Rafa Marin or Juan Jesus. A contract offer spanning 18 months is reportedly ready for the Brazilian.
Juventus’s sporting director, Giovanni Manna, recently commented on the situation, acknowledging Danilo’s quality while maintaining a cautious stance on any ongoing negotiations. However, the decision to exclude Danilo from the Super Cup squad sends a clear message about his diminishing role at the club.
The Turin-based team is poised for significant changes in their defensive line-up, with plans to potentially bring in two new players in that position. The main point of contention in negotiations between Napoli and Juventus revolves around the transfer fee. Juventus is seeking compensation for releasing Danilo, while Napoli hopes to acquire him on a free transfer, considering his imminent free agent status in the summer.
Danilo’s current situation at Juventus is precarious, with the club open to his departure. There’s a possibility of terminating his contract six months early, though this scenario remains unlikely at present. His departure would allow Juventus to offload his substantial wages, reported to be around €4 million net per season.
While Napoli leads the race for Danilo’s signature, other suitors include Pioli’s Al-Nassr. Juventus had also attempted to include him in a swap deal for Fikayo Tomori, which was rejected by Milan.
