Player and manager fallouts are never a comfortable sight for a club. Everton find themselves in a similar predicament with Rafa Benitez and Lucas Digne. The Frenchman has been left out of the squad on two back to back occasions.
When the team sheet for the Arsenal game came out, Digne was a notable absentee. At first it seemed like an unforeseen injury but his absence from the match day squad was not due to injury concerns. Benitez had left him out of the squad after the duo had an argument resulting in a fallout. The relationship between the defender and manager is on a decline, in fact, it continues to erode as the Frenchman was also left out of the trip to London.
Digne faced similar treatment against Crystal Palace as he did not travel with the squad. This has raised serious concerns over the future of the former Barcelona defender, who has been plying his trade at Merseyside since 2018.
The 28 year old signed a contract extension earlier this year, expressing his delight over signing a new deal that runs until summer 2025. The recent turn of events could see teams across Europe jump in the chase of Digne as the January transfer window edges closer. If the relationship isn’t repaired soon, there is every possibility that the 28 year old could find himself on the transfer list.
Juventus initiate contact with Everton fullback Lucas Digne
In fact, some European heavyweights are already lining up for Digne. According to Calciomercato, Juventus have already initiated first contacts with the representatives of Digne. The Bianconeri have struggled in Serie A this season and some players have been heavily underperforming. Left back Alex Sandro hasn’t been performing up to the mark. He earns €6 million net per season and isn’t willing to take a wage cut as his contract is set to expire in summer 2023.
A decision will only be made in the summer, however, manager Max Allegri has no intention to offload Sandro. On the other hand, Juventus Sports coordinator Federico Cherubini is looking at Digne and is in contact with the player’s entourage. Along with Digne, Genoa’s Andrea Cambiaso is also being followed.
Everton left back Digne has been one of the best left backs in the league, especially in terms of attacking output. Last season, the Frenchman was tied second for most assists by a defender with seven, only one behind Aaron Cresswell. Back in 2019-20, Digne recorded seven assists, behind Liverpool duo of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson.
The former PSG full back is well known for his attacking qualities and crossing ability but since Benitez has arrived at the helm, Digne has to restrict his offensive instincts and concentrate more on the defensive responsibilities.
It is still unclear whether Digne would feature in the next game and can the relationship be repaired.
Will Lucas Digne leave Everton in January?