Juventus have opened talks with Sassuolo over a deal to sign Italy midfielder Manuel Locatelli, Goal Italy can confirm.
Juve sporting director Fabio Paratici has been an admirer of the 23-year-old since he first broke through at Milan five years ago but has stepped up his interest having been impressed with his performances for club and country over the past 12 months.
The Bianconeri are likely to face intense competition for the player's signature but are hopeful that by moving quickly they can tie up the move and avoid a bidding war for his services, with Sassuolo likely to request a fee of around €40 million (£34m/$47m).