Liverpool Transfer News: Juventus Rumoured to End Emre Can 'Soap Opera' Soon

Juventus will reportedly decide in the next 10 days whether or not to make a move for Liverpool midfielder Emre Can after the club's director indicated the Bianconeri want the summer "soap opera" to be over.

Giuseppe Marotta has addressed Juve's pursuit of the German on several occasions in recent months but suggested the end is in sight in regards to a decision being made, per the Mirror's Liam Prenderville:

"I am asking myself what the situation is.

“We want the soap opera to conclude in around 10 days.

"The player is right to evaluate all opportunities, so we’ll wait and see what he wants to do."

Can has been linked with a move to Turin for the majority of this season, touted for a free transfer when his contract expires at the end of the campaign. However, it always seemed likely Can would examine Liverpool's season-ending prospects before making his decision.

The Reds' chances of major silverware were recently boosted after they beat Manchester City 3-0 in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final. That result led football writer Joel Rabinowitz to question why anyone would want to leave Anfield at present:

Marotta's 10-day window doesn't align, however, as Can may be no closer to deciding his next career move by the end of that period. The simple answer is to assume his comments are a tactic to get Can to commit to a deal now, with German giants Bayern Munich mentioned by Prenderville as another interested party.

Rumours have abounded for months that Can, who is free to sign a pre-contract with any club outside the Premier League, has already agreed to join Serie A titans Juve, although German compatriot Sami Khedira suggested to the contrary:

It's not all panic for Liverpool, who have the arrival of RB Leipzig star Naby Keita to look forward to this summer, although many fans would undoubtedly like to keep hold of Can in addition to the Guinea international.

Juventus may offer an appetising destination as they lead Serie A en route to a seventh successive Scudetto and have challenged for Champions League silverware on several occasions in recent years.

However, a Liverpool side led by Jurgen Klopp and with stars like Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino among their ranks also holds great potential, something Can seems all too aware of as he goes about his choice.

Prenderville also mentioned the peculiar back problem that's sidelined Can for Liverpool's last three matches and the fact his health status at club level doesn't appear to correspond with his national team, per journalist Chris Williams:

Juve's eagerness to get a deal over the line in time for the summer is no surprise given any potential to dazzle at the 2018 FIFA World Cup will only see the list of Can's admirers increase.

One of the longest-running transfer sagas in circulation could be nearing its end, although Marotta's warning over the end of this "soap opera" may not coax the reaction Juventus desire from their target.