Report: Juventus step up their interest in Bayer Leverkusen star Julian Brandt
Juventus are said to have intensified their efforts to sign Julian Brandt from Bayer Leverkusen this summer.
Bayer Leverkusen's Julian Brandt has attracted increasing interest from Juventus, Sport Bild understands.
The Serie A champions are said to have presented an offer to Brandt's father and agent, Jürgen Brandt. But nothing is signed yet.
Juventus don't have to negotiatiate with Bayer Leverkusen, because Brandt's contract contains a release clause of €25 million.
Brandt himself has said that he'll make a decision about his future at the end of the season.
The winger is adamant that he wants to play in Europe and wants to see if Leverkusen qualify for a European competition - and whether they'll take part in the Europa League or the Champions League in that case.
According to Sport Bild, Brandt will most likely keep playing for Leverkusen if they qualify for the Champions League.
There's even a chance he'll stay if 'Die Werkself' achieve Europa League qualification, because he feels really comfortable in the offensive midfield position under Leverkusen coach Peter Bosz.
Additionally, if the German international stays at BayArena, he doesn't need to prove himself at a new club ahead of the European Championship in 2020.
If Leverkusen don't qualify for Europe, Brandt will most likely leave - and a move abroad is considered likely. In addition to Juventus, the 22-year-old has been linked with Atlético Madrid and a number of English clubs.
Meanwhile, a transfer within Germany is also a possibility. Borussia Dortmund are said to be keen on the winger while Bayern München are considering their interest.
Before Brandt joined Leverkusen from Wolfsburg in 2014, he was chased by the likes of Bayern, Dortmund and Chelsea. But the winger, who was 17 at the time, listened to his gut feeling and opted for a move to 'Die Werkself'.
Brandt's contract runs until 2021. He has made 37 appearances this season with seven goals and 14 assists to his name.