Sassuolo CEO confirms interest in Juventus defender

Sassuolo CEO Giovanni Carnevali has officially acknowledged his club’s interest in Juventus centre-back Daniele Rugani, but concedes that a deal is unlikely due to Juventus’ firm stance on keeping the experienced defender.

“Rugani is an interesting option, but I don’t think Juve will want to sell him,”

Rugani, 30, spent last season on loan at Ajax, delivering solid performances under Italian coach Francesco Farioli.

However, following Farioli’s resignation, Ajax opted against making the move permanent. Rugani has since returned to Turin, where he remains under contract with Juventus until June 2026.

New head coach Igor Tudor has already reintegrated him into the squad ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup, signaling confidence in the defender’s reliability despite not being a guaranteed starter.

Having joined Juventus from Empoli in 2013, Rugani has largely served as a squad player, spending loan spells at Rennes, Cagliari, and most recently Ajax.

Despite speculation about a summer move, Juventus prefer to retain Rugani as a backup and a leadership figure in the locker room.

Rugani’s performance in Juventus’ narrow Round of 16 loss to Real Madrid drew praise, further reinforcing his value to the squad.

However, Sassuolo and Genoa are both keen on signing him, reportedly offering a two-year contract.

Meanwhile, newly appointed FC Porto boss Farioli is also said to be interested in reuniting with Rugani in Portugal.

For now, Juventus appear reluctant to let the veteran leave. Despite interest from multiple clubs, Rugani himself is said to favor remaining at the club where he’s spent over a decade, even if he plays a secondary role.