Liverpool stalwart linked with surprising move to Italian giants

After watching John Stones prove the theory that footballers are best off played in their natural positions during England’s Euro 2016 qualifier with Switzerland, the majority of the country strangely finds themselves anticipating the return of Glen Johnson from injury.

However the Liverpool right-back’s spike in popularity isn’t just confined to these shores, as it’s being reported that Juventus are emerging as somewhat surprising suitors once the transfer window reopens in January.

Considering the Italian giants secured the signature of Patrice Evra over the summer, their pursuit of another Premier League-based full-back shouldn’t actually be too much of a shock.

Johnson’s contract with the Merseyside club is currently on the wind down, with less than a year remaining on his deal.

So far terms of an extension have failed to be agreed upon, leaving Liverpool with the distinct possibility of losing their 143-appearance defender for free once the contract expires.

Brendan Rodgers only wants to hand Johnson a one-year extension, but the player himself is eager to secure himself a longer-term deal.

If no agreement can be reached, the Northern Irishman could be persuaded to trade his first-choice right-back in for cold hard Juventus cash come January.

Should he move to Italy, Johnson would follow in the footsteps of former England teammate Ashley Cole, who swapped Chelsea for Roma this summer, making his debut in the Serie A opening weekend.

Until the January window reopens though, Johnson will be focussed on returning from a thigh injury and helping Liverpool solidify a top-four standing in the Premier League, a feat Ladbrokes rate as a 4/9 chance.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

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