Alex would ‘gladly accept’ long-term move to Juventus

By: Jack | August 19th, 2011

This titan’s reign may soon be over at Stamford Bridge. Alex has told Italian television he is open to a move away from Chelsea.

alex
apparently loves Italian football

I’ve sort of been resigned to Alex leaving the club for some time. He has been somewhat marginalized in recent seasons despite some herculean performances, all of which have been well documented around here. Who can forget that free kick against Arsenal early last season? Mount Olympus status.

He is no doubt an excellent defender and could walk into several elite sides right now. I reckon he’d have a strong case to partner Pique at Barcelona if I’m perfectly honest. So, this latest news is of no surprise. In fact, I guess I’m kind of surprised it took this long.

Though a move away from the club has been mentioned, mostly in passing, this summer, this time it’s in much more direct fashion.

The 29-year-old told has apparently told Sky Sport Italia he is very much open to playing in Serie A. A transfer to Juventus? Fine by him.

Among the choice cuts:

“Seeing as I am 29, this is the right moment to sign one last big contract and stay in Europe for at least four years. I still have a two-year contract with Chelsea and so far there hasn’t been talk of a renewal.

“This is why if a four-year deal were to be offered by Juventus, I would gladly accept. I’d love to play in Italy and hope to make this dream come true. I really love Italian football.”

He goes on.

“Now it depends on Juve. If they came in with the right offer, I don’t think it would be difficult to reach an agreement with Chelsea. However, if they maintain the idea of a loan, then it’ll be very tough.”

Wow. So what we learn is that 1. Alex would like to move to Juventus and 2. Chelsea, according to Alex, would be willing to let him go.

I reckon much of this is dependent upon Slobodan Rajkovic. If a work permit is secured for the young Serbian, then the club probably would sell. If not, I simply can’t see it.

Nevertheless, it’s interesting to see Alex come out publicly like this. Selling represents quite the risk, particularly with our injury history at the position, but I’d like to see Alex receive a chance to start regularly. As always, we’ll keep you posted on how this one plays out.

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Category: Chelsea Team News, Quotes, Transfer Rumors

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Chels

This could be a good thing. Alex is 29 and he isn't homegrown. If we,re getting Mata and Modrić he opens up a spot for one of them. Kalou then leaves and we're set. Plus if he leaves we'll have to buy a replacement who will definetly be a homegrown player. Either Dann or Cahill.
Devin Anand

I'd be upset to see him go but I can't fault the guy for wanting minutes. We'll miss you Atlas.
Buzzi

I hope not. I really think he's a rock in the back, I've rarely seen him play poorly. He may not be the most dynamic guy, but do you really need that from a center back? Quick enough, strong, good in the air, and good positioning. I know we have Luiz who theoretically should be starting for us, but Alex us just so good that I wouldn't want to see him out of the squad, even if just for depth, though I can hardly blame him for not wanting to be just a depth player.
alllepo

I really hope this is a rumor. Alex on D is a big help to Terry and Ivanovic. In my opinion, Ivanovic should be moved to the bench while Cole, Terry, Alex, Luiz play the back 4. What sucks is AVB is new to the players and its previous successful formations. Time will settle for AVB but will the players settle in? ...
Maysam

Losing Alex is a huge blow for Chelsea ... to me he is much stroger than Terry on air clashes ... I hope he stays and the amount of money Juventus wants to pay is amazingly low for Alex
Susan

So Alex would be happy without the CL or even the Europa Cup? I find that hard to believe but I have been known to be wrong *cough* Torres *cough*