With the end of arguably his most difficult campaign at Paris Saint-Germain fast approaching, Marco Verratti now appears set to leave this summer – but not for any club.
Despite renewing his contract until 2026 at the turn of the year, the Italian midfielder is now looking for a new project. He is said to be exasperated by the internal conflicts that have characterised the league leaders’ recent campaigns, as well as the fact he was on the receiving end of verbal attacks during an protest by the ultras.
According to L’Équipe, Sporting Advisor Luís Campos is open to letting the 30-year-old leave, while club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi is broadly against the idea – but given his proximity to Verratti, he may leave the door ajar.
One potential destination is Real Madrid, and if Carlo Ancelotti remains in the Spanish capital he will likely push for his compatriot’s signing, but the two clubs’ directors are not necessarily on good terms. Verratti could also join Cristiano Ronaldo (and potentially Lionel Messi) in Saudi Arabia, and has kept the option on the table, despite a move to the Gulf state not being his first choice. A return to Italy is possible, although both Juventus and Inter will want to see their final position in the Serie A standings before considering a move. In the case of the Bianconeri, L’Équipe add, one decisive factor could be the fact that Campos and manager Massimiliano Allegri know each other very well.
GFFN | Raphaël Jucobin
