Juventus set sights on Premier League mastermind to replace Allegri

Massimiliano Allegri's tenure as Juventus manager could be nearing its end, as the Italian giants are reportedly considering Brighton & Hove Albion's Roberto De Zerbi as a potential replacement for next season.

Despite having a year remaining on his contract, Allegri's position has become precarious after a disappointing 2022-23 campaign that looks set to conclude without any silverware.

According to HITC, Juventus have identified De Zerbi as a prime candidate to take over the reins in Turin. The 44-year-old Italian has captured the attention of Europe's elite clubs with his impressive debut season at Brighton, guiding the Seagulls to a remarkable 6th place finish in the Premier League and securing their first-ever qualification for the Europa League.

De Zerbi's brand of attacking, possession-based football has earned him widespread acclaim as one of the most exciting young coaches on the continent. His meteoric rise began at Sassuolo, where he spent three years honing his tactics in Serie A before a brief stint at Shakhtar Donetsk.

However, it is his exploits at Brighton that have truly elevated De Zerbi's reputation. His side's free-flowing, entertaining style has drawn admiring glances from clubs like Liverpool and Barcelona, who are also rumoured to be interested in securing his services.

While Juventus are not the only club considering a managerial change, with names like Antonio Conte, Thiago Motta, and Zinedine Zidane also being linked, De Zerbi's stock has never been higher. The Italian tactician has two years remaining on his contract at Brighton, but his future on the south coast is uncertain given the potential opportunities at bigger clubs.

De Zerbi himself has expressed a desire to discuss his plans with Brighton's ownership to ensure alignment on the club's vision. If Juventus were to make a move, they would likely have to pay a substantial compensation fee, as De Zerbi is one of the highest-paid managers in the Premier League.

However, the potential financial windfall from qualifying for the revamped 2025 Club World Cup could make it easier for the Italian giants to afford a change in management.

As the season draws to a close, Allegri's future at Juventus remains shrouded in doubt. The club's decision on whether to retain their current manager or usher in a fresh start with a new tactician like Roberto De Zerbi is expected in the coming weeks.

For Juventus, the allure of De Zerbi's attacking philosophy and his proven ability to develop young talent could prove too compelling to resist, especially as they look to rebuild and reclaim their place among Europe's elite.

Only time will tell if the Bianconeri will take the plunge and embark on a new era under the guidance of one of football's brightest young minds. But one thing is clear: change is on the horizon in Turin, and the future of Juventus hangs in the balance.