Transfer Talk: Ramsey eyes new club after Turin troubles

Aaron Ramsey is unwanted and unloved at Juventus with both player and club keen for a resolution.

The midfielder is sure to be in demand this summer after helping Wales qualify for their first World Cup in 64 years earlier this month.

As they prepare to take on the Netherlands tonight, we consider what the future may hold for the 31-year-old Dragons star.

Juve jaunt

Ramsey joined Juventus on a free transfer from Arsenal in 2019 but his time in Turin has been plagued by injuries.

The Caerphilly native made just three Serie A appearances in the first half of last season before being shipped out on loan to Rangers for the latter stages of the campaign.

And Juventus have reportedly started negotiations with Ramsey’s representatives in order to terminate his contract a year early.

The Bianconeri are keen to get the 74-cap international’s hefty wages off their books this summer after they gave him a rumoured £400,000-a-week package three years ago.

If the two parties are able to strike a deal, it would make Ramsey a much more enticing prospect for potential suitors on a free transfer.

Rangers return

Rangers could explore the option of making Ramsey’s loan a permanent deal with the Glasgow giants looking particularly slender in the midfield department.

The Welshman made just five appearances in the Scottish Premiership, yet he did score a respectable two goals in that period.

But the midfield maestro’s time in Glasgow ultimately ended in disappointment after he missed a penalty in the Europa League final shootout — though that is unlikely to have an impact on manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s decision.

Speaking after the final, he said: “Aaron of course was disappointed. But he took responsibility to take the penalty.

“You can make it or you can miss it. Unfortunately for us he didn’t make it but you want to have players taking penalties and who are comfortable also.”

Goodison getaway

This summer’s transfer window will be vital for Everton following their torrid 2021-22 season.

The Toffees avoided relegation by the skin of their teeth and manager Frank Lampard has been clear about his current squad’s deficiencies when it comes to his preferred style of football.

Everton have been linked with a move for Ramsey in previous windows and may look to rekindle their interest in an attempt to add some quality to the centre of the park.

Lampard likes his side to progress the ball between the lines at breakneck speed — something which the former Cardiff star is more than capable of.

He attempted an average of 24.07 passes into the final third per 90 minutes during last term’s Europa League campaign, placing him inside the competition’s top 15 players.

With Everton’s well-documented financial struggles, a move for Ramsey could offer superb value for money.

Forest reunion

Another potential option for Ramsey is a return to the City Ground with newly-promoted Nottingham Forest.

The 5ft 10in creator enjoyed a short loan stint in the East Midlands during the 2010-11 campaign and was part of the Forest side which famously thrashed rivals Derby 5-2.

A switch to fellow Welshman Steve Cooper’s outfit would provide an ideal opportunity to gain match fitness ahead of the World Cup.

Forest are set to be in the market for a midfielder this window following the expiration of James Garner’s loan from Manchester United — leaving them light in the centre of the park.

Ramsey’s previous spell with the club was curtailed by injury, so there may be a sense of unfinished business for him at the City Ground.

Cardiff calling

Perhaps the most romantic option for Ramsey would be a Cardiff homecoming.

The Championship outfit are believed to have thrown their hat in the ring to re-sign the former Bluebird.

Ramsey joined Cardiff at the age of eight before rising through the ranks and becoming the club’s youngest ever player aged 16.

After a breakout season, he earned a £5million move to Arsenal — and now a return may be on the horizon 14 years later.