Juventus have ramped up efforts to sign Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere according to reports in London.
The Serie A champions have been busy in the transfer window this summer, signing Patrice Evra, Alvaro Morata and Roberto Pereyra in recent weeks, but have now sounded out the England international as their next potential acquisition.
The Evening Standard writes that, although Wenger has rubbished reports of Wilshere leaving, Juventus retain an interest in the player and are waiting for encouragement from the club before they make an official offer.
A pivotal element in Arsenal perhaps becoming receptive to the Turin club’s interest is Wilshere’s chequered history with injuries, specifically his ankle, which his club continue to monitor closely on a regular basis with scans.
The 22-year-old’s relationship with Wenger is also a talking point as he was caught smoking for the second time in a year and rumours remain that it has fractured the trust between manager and player.
Wilshere signed a five-year contract with Arsenal in December 2012 worth €100,00-a-week and Juventus would be capable of offering a substantial increase, especially if they eventually sell Arturo Vidal to Manchester United for the €60m fee reported.
The Bianconeri could yet test Arsenal’s resolve with an offer as one senior agent believes Wilshere would command a fee of at least €40m – but a deal in the current transfer window remains highly improbable given the Gunners’ current stance.
