Romano: ‘Contacts have been established’ – Allegri keen on Juventus centre-back

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Fabrizio Romano has poured cold water on suggestions that AC Milan and Juventus are discussing a swap deal.

Milan are believed to be looking for a new central defender in the January mercato, given that there are doubts about the quality and quantity of the current options in that position, with Matteo Gabbia currently injured and Koni De Winter having struggled to hit the ground running.

Juventus meanwhile are widely reported to be in the market for a new central midfielder to complete the department. Thus, the rather surprising news emerged in recent days that the two rivals could engage in a swap deal involving Federico Gatti and Samuele Ricci.

‘No evidence’

Fabrizio Romano has now addressed the rumours that Milan and Juve could complete a rather shock exchange before the winter window ends, with his comments relayed by MilanNews.

“Contacts have been established between Max Allegri and Gatti, and there’s a great connection between them. But from here to a swap deal… We’re not aware of Milan and Juventus having initiated a Ricci-Gatti swap deal, and that’s what Allegri confirmed,” he said.

Federico Gatti and Milan emblemPhoto by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images

“The coach confirms his intention to keep Ricci at Milan and make him an important part of his coaching project. There’s no evidence of a Gatti-Ricci swap deal. What does appear to be true is that Massimiliano Allegri is keen on Federico Gatti.

“It’s been known for some time that the relationship between the two is excellent. From here to signing him… We’re not at that stage.”

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