Southampton saw one high profile departure in the January transfer window, in the form of Carlos Alcaraz.
The midfielder only joined in January 2023, from Racing Club in his native Argentina.
However, he has now been loaned out again, joining Juventus on loan until the end of this season.
As part of that deal, the Serie A giants reportedly have the option to buy Alcaraz for a fee of £40million when the market reopens in the summer.
Now though, it seems that while the Italian side may be interested in an extended deal for the Southampton man, they do not want to do it on those terms.
Juventus eyeing Carlos Alcaraz agreement
Since joining Juventus last month, Alcaraz has made just two substitute appearances for the club.
Even so, the Southampton loanee does look to have made a positive impression in Italy, to some extent.
According to reports from CalcioMercato, Juventus are unwilling to pay the expensive buy clause in Alcaraz’ loan.
However, they are keen to negotiate a new agreement with Southampton. Indeed, it is thought the Serie A are set to make a new offer to the Saints.
That could apparently include a new loan agreement, that would alter the buyout fee to make the move permanent.
Beyond that, the option to buy Alcaraz from Southampton, may become an obligation.
Juventus are said to be looking to lower transfer costs with the deal. It is also suggested that the Saints’ interest in Juventus striker Matias Soule could influence the situation.
Alcaraz only signed a new five-year deal at St Mary’s in the summer. As a result, Southampton are very much in control when it comes to negotiations over his future.
Southampton should consider Carlos Alcaraz negotiations
Of course, the contract situation surrounding Alcaraz means Saints are not under pressure to do a deal with Juventus for the midfielder.
However, it could still be argued that it is something the club ought to be considering.
Alcaraz has never really settled at St Mary’s, often struggling to find his best form for Southampton.
As a result, it may make little sense for them to keep him at the club, when they may have a chance to do a deal for him with Juventus.
One way or another, that may still have the potential to help the club financially. It would also ensure that Southampton do not have a player on their books in Alcaraz, who may not want to be there.
The suggestion that the Saints’ own interest in Soule may influence the situation should also be noted. That may indicate that this could also open the door for the club to make a useful addition to their squad too.
Southampton therefore, may want to keep an open mind when it comes to the future of Alcaraz.