"Bonucci wanted to come to Manchester City, but Juventus would not sell". These were the words of City CEO Ferran Soriano earlier today to Radio Catalunya. So what really is behind the story of the Juventus defenders relationship with the Premier League side and with Pep Guardiola, who has made no secret of his admiration for the Italian international?
 

The players agent, Alessandro Lucci explained to Juve that there was an salary on offer to his client of around €8 million a season plus bonuses whilst the bianconeri were set to land around €60 million in transfer payments for one of their prized assets. It was an offer that gave Bonucci food for thought, both from an economic point of view and the chance to play for one of Europe’s most competitive teams and because citizens boss, Pep Guardiola, has on more than one occasion tried to woo the 29-year-old with some extremely positive comments. When Bonucci went to meet with Marotta and Paratici however, they convinced him of the clubs desire to keep hold of his services and the proposal was rejected.  

Behind this decision was a clear message from the champions that they will not sell their best players unless they ask to leave. This is even more valid after the departure of Paul Pogba to an offer they could’nt refuse and a player who wanted to head to pastures new. Bonucci welcomed the proposal of Manchester City but passed the ball to Juve and chose to remain. So came his renewal in Turin that will see him earn just over €5 million plus bonus which could see him earning a cool €6 million a season with a contract sealed until 2021.

By Fabrizio Romano. Adapted & translated by Steve Mitchell