Marco Verratti hands in transfer request at PSG ahead of move to Juventus

Marco Verratti has informed PSG that he wants to leave the club in the summer, with Italian champions Juventus being the likely destination.

The 24-year-old has been a subject of interest from clubs across Europe including Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester United, and Bayern Munich since the season ended. Verratti seemingly put an end to those rumours a few weeks ago when he was quoted by the Express as saying: "I still have four years of a contract and I do not think to leave."

However, the midfielder has now completely reversed his decision and handed in a transfer request to the board members in PSG, according to French paper L'Equipe. 

According to the report, Verratti had a meeting with PSG's new sporting director Antero Henrique and informed him of his decision to leave, citing the lack of progress in both the Ligue 1 and the Champions League as primary reasons behind him seeking a move away. The player also expressed his desire to play for Italian champions Juventus.

Although PSG might be reluctant to sell the midfielder, a fee of around €80 million will be enough for them to let him go.

Having never played in the Serie A, Verratti moved to PSG from Italian club Pescara but has shown maturity beyond his years as he dominated the midfield in Ligue 1.  

Although Juventus is Verratti's first choice, the club may not be able to fork out the €80 million PSG want after spending over €70 million for Gonzalo Higuain last season and more recently signing both Juan Cuadrado and Mehdi Benatia on permanent deals. 

Barcelona and Chelsea are also on red alert after news of him wanting to leave PSG broke out.