Juventus and Barcelona continue talks over Miralem Pjanic and Arthur Melo swap deal

After initially rebuffing any possible departure, Juventus have fresh hope of persuading Arthur to leave Spain

Talks are continuing between Juventus and Barcelona over a potential swap deal featuring Miralem Pjanic and Arthur Melo.

Barcelona identified Pjanic, 30, as one of their primary targets ahead of the transfer window, with their precarious financial position meaning swap deals remains the club’s preference.

The Independent understands that although Arthur, 23, initially rebuffed any proposal over leaving Barcelona, there are fresh hopes that the Brazilian international could now be persuaded by a move to Turin.

Barcelona are looking to offload several high-earning players this summer, with Ivan Rakitic, Arturo Vidal and Nelson Semedo suggested in swap deals. However, Juventus have remained firm in their pursuit of Arthur.

Chelsea midfielder Jorginho has also been considered as a potential replacement for Pjanic by Juventus, with the Italian international sharing a close relationship with head coach Maurizio Sarri.

Jorginho’s agent, Joao Santos, recently admitted that there had been interest from two “top” clubs. However, the 28-year-old still has three years remaining on his contract at Chelsea, and Arthur remains Juventus’s first choice.