Perin: 'Air of victory at Juve'

By Football Italia staff

Mattia Perin hinted at a Juventus transfer as he can “breathe in the air of victory” in Turin ahead of Italy’s friendly with the Netherlands.

The goalkeeper is expected to start Monday’s friendly against Holland, which will be played at the Allianz Juventus Stadium.

Reports today suggest that will be his club home next season, as a move for €15m including bonuses is almost complete.

“I am only thinking about the Nazionale. My agent will do the rest and I am trying to leave the transfer market out of my mind for now,” said the Genoa goalkeeper during a Press conference.

“We secured safety with Genoa, I said there was a good chance I would leave Marassi and I feel ready for the step up in my career. I’m glad we are training at (Juventus camp) Vinovo. You can breathe in the air of victory here.”

Perin does not seem to be put off by the possibility of being on the bench behind Wojciech Szczesny.

“I’d have to fight for my place at any club and having a strong teammate in goal doesn’t worry me. I’ve changed over the last two years, I think in a positive way, and feel more balanced. I’m someone with courage, as I needed it to overcome two serious knee injuries in quick succession.”

Gianluigi Donnarumma started against Saudi Arabia, Salvatore Sirigu took the gloves with France last night and Perin is the other candidate to replace Gigi Buffon.

“Gigi is a reference point for all of us and there are many goalkeepers who aspire to the Italy Number 1 jersey. He’s one of the best in the world and always responded to critics with his performances on the field. I respect Buffon a great deal and we have an exceptional rapport. There’s so much to learn from him, on and off the field.

“Besides, if Gigi wants to return, he is still a candidate for the Italy shirt.”

New Italy Coach Roberto Mancini is focusing on youth and renovation in his friendlies, beating Saudi Arabia 2-1 and losing 3-1 to France.

“He is a Coach who from the start showed faith in us. We are a young group, confidence makes us give 110 per cent. Tactically and technically, I think he’s leading us well and the players work hard for him.

“Against France, we saw the difference between the teams at this moment in time, but we showed good things too. We’re on the right track and that performance gave us confidence.

“France can win the World Cup and we caused them real problems. In a year or two, we can be at their level. We’ve only been together for 12 days, but there is a lovely atmosphere and we have fun, both on and off the field.”

Watch Serie A live in the UK on Premier Sports for just £9.99 per month including live LaLiga, Eredivisie, Scottish Cup Football and more. Visit: https://www.premiersports.com/subscribenow