Romano: Edon Zhegrova emerges as Al-Ittihad target with Juventus future uncertain

Edon Zhegrova has been identified as a potential Al-Ittihad signing during the current summer transfer window, according to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The Juventus winger is being considered alongside Eintracht Frankfurt’s Japan international Ritsu Doan as a possible replacement for Moussa Diaby, whose departure from Al-Ittihad is described as imminent.

Romano reports that Zhegrova has already rejected the opportunity to join Atalanta. The Kosovo right-winger would prefer to wait for the possibility of a move to Al-Ittihad rather than accept a transfer to the Italian club.

No agreement has been announced, but Zhegrova’s preference has placed the Saudi Pro League side among the options being considered for his next move. The player is now one of the names linked with replacing Diaby, while Doan is also being assessed as an alternative.

Zhegrova was left out of Juventus’ squad for Saturday’s Serie A match against Parma. The decision was made by Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti, with the club preparing to face Parma in the second round of the Italian league.

His absence from the squad comes as attention continues to focus on the winger’s position at Juventus. Zhegrova joined the club last summer from French side Lille in a deal worth 15.5 million euros.

The Kosovo international has made only one appearance for Juventus so far this season. He played 21 minutes in the opening-round Serie A match against Frosinone, but did not score.

Since arriving in Turin, Zhegrova has featured in 28 matches for Juventus. He has yet to register either a goal or an assist for the club.

The 28-match record and his omission from the squad for the meeting with Parma have added to the uncertainty surrounding his immediate future, although the current reports centre on interest from Al-Ittihad and the player’s reported willingness to wait for that opportunity.

Doan, who plays for Eintracht Frankfurt, is the other candidate named by Romano as a potential replacement for Diaby. Zhegrova’s decision to turn down Atalanta means that a move to Al-Ittihad remains a preferred option for the player, should the Saudi club proceed with its interest.

For now, Zhegrova remains a Juventus player, but his exclusion from the squad and the reported interest from Al-Ittihad have made him one of the notable names linked with a move during the summer transfer window.