Report: Wolves join hunt for Juventus defender Rugani

Add as preferred source on Google

Wolverhampton Wanderers have joined the race to sign Juventus defender Daniele Rugani.

As reported by Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla via his official website, the Black Country club are in the mix for the Italy international with just a few days of the transfer widow remaining.

The development comes after the club’s reported pursuit of Benfica defender Ruben Dias went cold.

Arsenal have recently been linked with a loan move for the 25-year-old, and Manchester United have also been mentioned – although the Red Devils have now signed Harry Maguire for a whopping £80 million (BBC Sport).

Rugani has seemingly slipped down the pecking order at Juve following the arrival of Dutch wonderkid Matthijs de Ligt.

The 6ft 3in ace also has Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini and Merih Demiral for competition.

TBR’s view

Considering Wolves have recently been linked with a move for Lazio defender Wallace (Daily Mail), a late swoop for Rugani would be much more satisfying for Wolves supporters.

Although not the quickest, the towering ace is a fine defender and is often perfectly positioned to make up for his lack of pace.

Like most central defenders are being coached these days, Rugani is comfortable playing out from the back which would be an added bonus for Wolves.

Back in April, former Juventus coach Max Allegri said of the player (quoted by Calciomercato): “Rugani? Daniele is one of the best centre-backs in Italy and one of the best in Europe.”

With Champions League experience under his belt, a move for Rugani wouldn’t be such a bad way to finish the window after missing out on Dias.