Juventus market: a solid Austrian for the shaky Bianconeri defense
Also monitoring the situation is Juventus, whose stability in the backline is certainly in need of improvement: on Sunday, in the big match played in Turin with AC Milan, they did not concede a goal only because of Christian Pulisic’s poor execution from the penalty spot and the errors under goal of Rafael Leao, the inconstant Portuguese not by chance ended up on the gridiron and at risk of transfer.
David Affengruber is undoubtedly one of the most surprising revelations of this early season in La Liga. Elche’s Austrian central defender has come to the forefront of general attention thanks to his solidity, charisma and maturity well beyond his 24 years of age. Having arrived just over a year ago from Sturm Graz for a small fee, he has gone from being a bet in Segunda Division to an absolute protagonist in Primera and of interest to the Old Continent’s big names, including the bianconeri.
His performance has been consistent, with top performances even against top opponents such as Atletico Madrid and Sevilla. On the field, he is a constant presence: he has played every available minute so far, showing an extraordinary ability to read the game, quiet leadership, and excellent understanding with his teammates. He has become a key pawn in Eder Sarabia’s tactical scheme and a reference point within the locker room.
The player’s market value has risen rapidly, and Elche, aware that it has its most valuable asset in its hands, has already set the price: it will not consider offers below 25 million euros.
Naturally, Juventus is not alone: Atletico Madrid is following him closely, convinced that his profile is ideal for the game required by Diego Simeone, made of aggressiveness, reliability in individual duels and ability to build from the bottom. But Manchester United has also entered the race, attracted by the combination of youth and experience and a price that, compared to current market parameters, still remains competitive. The player’s profile is also valued in Germany, by Borussia Dortmund, which could sell Bayern Munich’s Nico Schlotterbeck.
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