Weston McKennie eyeing Premier League return as Juventus set price tag for USMNT star amid contract extension stalemate

Posted Wednesday, March 13, 2024 by Goal.com

USMNT midfielder Weston McKennie could return to the Premier League with negotiations on a new deal at Juventus reaching a stalemate.

Midfielder exploring potential return to England
Contract expires at the end of next year, no extension immediate
Has tallied nine assists this season in all competitions

WHAT HAPPENED?

McKennie's contract expires at the end of the 2024-25 campaign, and there has been little movement on a new deal for the 25-year-old. The Italian club might be looking to cash in as a result, as they are willing to accept a €20 million (£17m/$22m) bid for their star midfielder, according to Gazzetta. The reports would seem to counter talk that the Bianconeri are prepared to offer McKennie an extension.

WHAT MCKENNIE SAID

In January, the midfielder asserted that his second spell at Juventus is an opportunity to return to his best: "When I left Leeds, I knew I had a bad showing. I knew I didn’t have the time that I thought I was going to have or that maybe I should have had. It put me in a mindset that when I came back here to Juventus, I was starting brand new. I’m going back to Juventus like it’s my first time. I have to prove myself all over again.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE

McKennie has seized a role in central midfield for the Bianconeri, starting 24 Serie A games this season and tallying seven league assists. Juventus are third in the Italian top flight, and seem well positioned to return to the Champions League ahead of the 2024-25 season.

WHAT NEXT FOR MCKENNIE

The USMNT midfielder seems poised to be a part of the Juventus midfield going forward. He is set to feature on March 17, when his side take on Genoa.