Adrien Rabiot has impressed for Juventus since the restart (Getty Images)
According to Calciomercato.it (h/t Leicester Mercury), Leicester City were scouting Juventus duo Adrien Rabiot and Federico Bernardeschi during their game against Genoa on Sunday ahead of the January transfer window. The latter started the game and provided an assist for the second goal while the Argentinian replaced him seven minutes from time.
Rabiot has been at the club for the last two years since joining from Paris Saint-Germain. His form has blown hot and cold but has been reliable when called upon. Bernardeschi, on the other hand, has been a regular squad player since moving from Fiorentina in 2017. The Italian has been a regular in the line-up this season.
Could the duo now depart the Turin outfit? And could Brendan Rodgers lure them to the King Power?
The Argentinian central midfielder has formed a crucial part of Massimiliano Allegri’s midfield this season, alongside Arthur, Federico Bentancur, Weston McKennie and Manuel Locatelli. He has played in 16 games this season and has provided 1 assist in that period. Bernardeschi has been pivotal going forward as he has played across the frontline this term, racking up three assists in 15 appearances.
However, Leicester are going to test Juve’s resolve now by launching a move for both players. The Foxes have had a slow start to the season but are still within touching distance of European spots. But they will have some concerns towards the end of the season.
Youri Tielemans shall enter the final year of his deal in the summer, as will Hamza Choudhury. Thus, there is a need for midfield reinforcements, and Rabiot might be able to fill that vacancy. The 26-year-old still has a lot of years ahead of him and could play some of his best football at the King Power.
Bernardeschi could also be useful given the dearth of wingers at the King Power. Rodgers currently possess Ayoze Perez, Patson Daka, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Jamie Vardy in the striking department. However, Harvey Barnes and Ademola Lookman are the only out and out wingers, with the latter set to go back to RB Leipzig at the end of his loan move. James Maddison can play out wide but is largely finding success in the number 10 role.
Thus, bringing a player like Bernardeschi could add some experience in the frontline. And provide Rodgers with the option to tweak his system from time to time. The Midlands club is also competing in the Europa League this season and is bound to need the depth in their ranks, especially if they make Europe this season.
Leicester might be scouting the duo for now and could also make a move in the winter transfer window, but it would be a hard sell. The pair is currently playing for one of the best teams in Italy, although they have been poor this season. Regardless, they are still competing in the Champions League and it remains to be seen if qualification for that tournament plays any role in potential negotiations.
However, Juventus do have financial concerns, courtesy of which they were willing to let Cristiano Ronaldo leave in the summer. The Foxes could take advantage of this situation if it still persists, regardless of there being no real indicator of it. Thus, while a double deal could be hard, there is also no guarantee whether the Italian club will buckle down and let two of their stars leave in the same window.
The men in blue have narrowly missed out on Champions League football in the last two seasons, and making mid-season additions could be the boost they need to secure the 4th spot in the Premier League this season.
