Bayern Munich's Mario Götze (Photo : Reuters)
Italian league champions Juventus FC is currently targeting Bayern Munich midfielder Mario Götze after their own star midfielder Arturo Vidal agreed to transfer to the Bundesliga champions, as reported by ESPN.
The Bavarians denied the rumors of a direct swap between the two players but have not rejected the possibility of a separate deal for the 23-year-old Germany international.
Juve said that they have not offered anything yet or opened any discussions with the Germans, but general manager Beppe Marotta admitted that Götze "has a profile with the characteristics we are looking for."
Marotta also told reporters during Juve's preseason training camp opening that they simply made an inquiry about the 5-foot-9 Memmingen native and there are no indications that Bayern will sell him, unlike the Vidal transaction that is just lacking in formality to be completed. The GM said that it is up to the Reds to announce the deal involving the Chilean whenever they want.
Meanwhile, Bayern legend Franz Beckenbauer commented that Götze would be making a big mistake if he decides to leave the Allianz Arena for Turin, as per Daily Mail Online.
Beckenbauer, who played 427 games with the Stern des Südens from 1964 to 1977, insisted that the attacking midfielder's career would blossom if he remains with Bayern. "I'd stay with Bayern if I were him. That's where he has the best conditions available and the best education."
It was clear, though, that Götze had been struggling in Munich since he joined the team in 2013 from Borussia Dortmund. The arrival of Vidal next season may make that struggle evident for Pep Guardiola and company to consider moving him.
