Sebastian Giovinco

Juve's Giovinco talks stall
Friday 12 September, 2008

Juventus starlet Sebastian Giovinco seems to be a long way from agreeing a new contract in Turin.

The Azzurrini ace is seen by many as a foundation for the future of the Bianconeri after returning from an impressive loan spell at Empoli.

With a number of top sides - including Arsenal - keeping a close eye on the pocket playmaker, Juve are expected to tie him to a long-term contract this summer.

But negotiations have started inauspiciously and reports suggest that there has been little progress in the first hours of discussions.

Agent Andrea D'Amico is reportedly angry at the Old Lady's first offer of just £400,000 per year until 2013 - a sum that is dwarfed by other players at the club.

D'Amico has demanded that Giovinco is “appreciated” and is looking for more than double that salary.

There are also suggestions that Giovinco is demanding assurances that he will feature in Coach Claudio Ranieri's first-team plans.

After being left out for the first game of the season against Fiorentina, Seba has voiced his fear of spending the next few months warming the bench and is looking for guarantees before he puts pen to paper.

Talks between the two parties will recommence after Juve's Champions League opener against UEFA Cup holders Zenit St Petersburg.

*chn4