The recurring summer saga of Arthur Melo and Juventus is set to take another twist, as the Brazilian midfielder appears destined for a return to Turin following Gremio's refusal to trigger his purchase option. Despite early-season promise and a captain's armband, the 29-year-old has failed to convince his loan club to meet the €10 million buyout clause set by the Bianconeri.
Juventus, eager to offload the midfielder's hefty wages, are willing to lower the asking price to around €6 million to facilitate a permanent departure. However, Gremio has indicated minimal interest even at that reduced figure, leaving Arthur's future in limbo as he enters the final year of his contract, which expires in June 2027.
The former Barcelona player has endured a nomadic spell since joining Juventus in 2020, with loan spells at Liverpool, Fiorentina, Girona, and now Gremio. His stint in Brazil has been marred by inconsistency and injury, with just one assist in 20 appearances. Currently sidelined with a muscle problem in his thigh, Arthur's output has not matched the expectations set by his early performances.
A return to European football remains a possibility, with Arthur reportedly keen on a move to La Liga. A previous loan at Girona proved relatively successful, though not enough to earn a permanent deal. Now, with Juventus desperate to free up wage bill space, a cut-price transfer could materialize.
The Bianconeri face a familiar challenge: finding a buyer for a player who has struggled to settle anywhere. With no club willing to meet the current valuation, Arthur may temporarily rejoin the Juventus squad for pre-season training, though a further exit is expected before the transfer window closes.
Based on reporting from Tuttosport.com - Calcio.
