The highly-rated playmaker was heavily connected with the Liga giants during the January window, using a trade deal involving Ivan Rakitic mooted. Federico Bernardeschi admits that documented interest in his services from Barcelona is a superb source of pride, but Juventus have provided no sign they are prepared to let him go.
It was suggested that Barca were looking to set a trade arrangement in place that would see Ivan Rakitic head in the opposite direction to Bernardeschi.
No deal was completed, however, and the deadline passed with two creative influences left at the same squads as they began the calendar year.
Bernardeschi is unlikely to drop off Barca’s radar, with the Italy international proud to be sparking talk of a possible move between two of European football’s biggest clubs.
Quizzed by Tuttosport on the apparent admiring glances he is bringing from Catalunya, Bernardeschi said: “Does Barcelona’s interest make me proud? Absolutely, yes, that is normal.
“When top clubs such as Barcelona are searching for you, it is a source of pride, but I’m already part of a top club.”
Bernardeschi has been on the books at Juventus since the summer of 2017, with a $44m deal taking him to Turin from Fiorentina.
He has not been productive for the Bianconeri because he was the Viola, with only nine goals recorded through 91 appearances.
There’s still plenty of potential to be unlocked in his match, however, and Juve are not ready to write off their investment just yet.
Bernardeschi admits as much, with nobody connected with the Serie A champions having offered any suggestion that they will be opening themselves up to offers.
He included to the exit speculation: “Frankly, nobody ever said anything to me, they never talked about the marketplace.
“I have a contract with Juve, it is not a problem for me, I’m fine in Turin.
“We’ll see what happens later but the club hasn’t spoken to me. In fact, the opposite was always the case when some questions about my potential sale were asked. And this made me very happy.”
Bernardeschi has taken in 21 outings for Juve this season, recording only one Champions League goal and a lone assist in Coppa Italia competition.
