Union Berlin eyes Italian defender, Leonardo Bonucci

BERLIN – Bundesliga leaders Union Berlin have fuelled speculation that they looking into signing veteran Italy defender Leonardo Bonucci heading into their maiden Champions League campaign.

Union managing director for sport Oliver Ruhnert said on ZDF television late Saturday that “we definitely want to sign another centre back” before the transfer window ends on Friday.

Bonucci, 36, has a Juventus contract until 2024 but has reportedly been told that he should find another club as the Turin clubs wants to field younger players.

Ruhnert said that Bonucci may not even cost a transfer fee as named him a great defender who has enjoyed a fantastic career which he mainly spent at Juventus while also helping Italy win Euro 2020.

Italian reports have suggested that Bonucci wants to continue his career in Italy, with Lazio reportedly interested, and Ruhnert remained cautious.

“So far he is not there and I expect that we will complete our planning by Friday. Then we will see whether he will come or not,” Ruhnert said.

Union finished fourth in the past Bundesliga season to qualify for the Champions League for the first time, with the group draw on Thursday, and top the current table by winning the first two games.

They have bolstered their squad this summer with the likes of Germany full back Robin Gosens and former Germany striker Kevin Volland.