Juventus Transfer News: Mario Mandzukic Available to Make Room for Alvaro Morata

Juventus are reportedly ready to offload Mario Mandzukic this summer as they seek to bankroll a pursuit of Chelsea forward Alvaro Morata. 

According to Corriere dello Sport (h/t Calciomercato.com), the Bianconeri want to bring Morata back to the club for a second stint, with the Spain international previously enjoying two fine years in Turin between spells at Real Madrid.

To do so it's reported that Mandzukic may have to make way, and AC Milan are said to hold an interest in the Croatia international. It's suggested Juventus value the 31-year-old forward at around €25 million (£22 million).

Mandzukic is not a guaranteed starter for the Italian champions, although he has developed into a crucial member of the squad under manager Massimiliano Allegri.

Frank Augstein/Associated Press

The effectiveness of the forward comes from how unorthodox he is. Mandzukic has been used in the past couple of campaigns in a role on the left flank, meaning Juventus can accommodate him, Gonzalo Higuain and Paulo Dybala in the same side.

While he's not got the attributes of a typical winger, the rangy attacker often creates mismatches in the position, as was evident in Juve's 3-1 win over Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League recently.

As these snaps from Marca show, the Juventus man bullied his marker Dani Carvajal on the night:

Mandzukic is also effective at the point of the attack. While he may not be the most prolific forward, his industry, work with his back to goal and aggression make him a difficult player for opposition defenders to handle.

He gives Juventus a totally different option. While Higuain is a sniper of a strike and Dybala seeks to find pockets off the front line, Mandzukic can be a battering ram in the right type of setup.

He's a warrior, too, as was evident after playing on in the recent win over Inter Milan despite a nasty injury, per Matteo Bonetti of beIN Sports:

Morata was a popular figure during his time with Juventus. His work rate, energy and penchant for important goals were crucial to the Bianconeri and there was disappointment when Madrid exercised their right to sign the striker back in 2016. He moved on to Chelsea a season later and despite a fast start, has struggled in the second part of the season.

As noted by Sky Sports Statto, Morata has at least forged a prosperous relationship with compatriot Cesar Azpilicueta on the field:

At the moment, his confidence is lacking, although the Spaniard has the tools to be an excellent forward for the Blues.

Given his age and the potential money they could recoup, it would be understandable if Juve were ready to sell Mandzukic. Finding a forward as physical, combative and versatile as him would be a big challenge for the Italian champions, though.