Juventus extend Alvaro Morata’s loan until 2022
Juventus have opted to extend the loan of striker Alvaro Morata until the end of the 2021/22 season, it has been confirmed.
Morata returned to Turin on an initial season long-loan from Atletico Madrid last summer and enjoyed a productive campaign under Andrea Pirlo. The Spaniard scored 17 times in all competitions and notched 21 goal contributions in 32 Serie A appearances as the Bianconeri surrendered their monopoly over the division to Antonio Conte’s Inter Milan.
Morata is currently at the European Championships with Spain; starting but failing to fire in their opening encounter against Sweden.
Juventus’ confirmation
Regarding the move, a club statement read:
"“Alvaro Morata has officially extended his loan agreement at Juventus from Atletico Madrid: the Spanish forward will wear the black and white jersey until 30 June 2022.”"
Terms
Fabrizio Romano understands Juventus will pay another €10m to Atletico to retain Morata’s services for the 2021/22 campaign following his initial €10m loan fee. Essentially, it’s €20m for a two-year loan with the club having the option to buy him outright for €30m next summer, taking up the total fee to a hefty €50m.
Allegri’s influence
It’s no surprise that the Bianconeri opted to extend Morata considering new manager Massimiliano Allegri’s admiration of the player.
Goal (via BeSoccer) reported back in May that Allegri had “specifically asked” for the Spanish striker to remain in Turin. The Italian boss previously said of Morata: “He’s one of few players in the world who can play with any kind of teammate.
“He can be a first striker, second, or something else.”
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Striker search
Morata’s extension doesn’t exactly rule Juve out of signing another striker this summer considering the ambiguity surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo’s future. As it stands, the Portuguese icon appears ready to depart Turin.
So, Juventus remain in the market for a centre-forward with Dusan Vlahovic, Gabriel Jesus, Mauro Icardi, Edin Dzeko, and Arkadiusz Milik all linked with a move to the club by various media outlets.
It’s a situation worth monitoring in the coming weeks and one that could progress swiftly following the conclusion of the Euros.