Forward Amauri will transfer from Palermo to Juventus this summer. The Brazilian was the top target for several of Europe’s largest clubs. He scored 23 league goals during his two seasons in Sicily. Juve will send Palermo in excess of 15 million pounds plus Antonio Nocerino for the 27 year-old Sao Paulo native. Midfielder Nocerino should see extended playing time at Palermo. Nocerino appeared in 32 league matches last season. The 23 year-old Italian will also compete in the upcoming Beijing Olympics.
In 2008-2009, Juventus returns to the UEFA Champions League tournament. Along with Amauri, the club has already brought in two Swedes – defender Olof Mellberg via Aston Villa and midfielder Albin Ekdal from IF Brommapojkarna. Mellberg enjoyed a lenghty career at Villa appearing in over 200 league appearances.
Who else will the Turin outfit bring in to bolster their chance at Champions League glory? Rumors and speculation have run rampant over the last several days. Liverpool’s Xabi Alonso has been linked. Also, during the club’s recent Asian tour, a Chinese prospect was spotted. Yang Yun is currently playing for Shenhua in China. According to reports, “The 20-year-old defender was singled out by Bianconeri boss Claudio Ranieri, who was impressed by his tactical awareness and potential.” Is this a shrewd marketing ploy or will the Chinese defender actually compete for first-team minutes at one of Italy’s largest clubs?
