Paul Pogba has been told that Juventus would “gladly welcome him back”, with Giorgio Chiellini happy to fuel transfer talk around the Manchester United midfielder.
The France international previously spent four years in Turin between 2012 and 2016, claiming four Serie A titles and two Coppa Italia crowns.
A record-breaking £89 million ($116m) deal then returned him to Old Trafford for a second spell, but the 25-year-old has struggled to justify that outlay amid widespread criticism of his form.
Pogba is, however, a World Cup winner and a match-winning talent on his day, and Chiellini admits the door will always be open to him should be wish to head back to Italy.
He told La Stampa: “Pogba? We’d gladly welcome him back.
“He is special. He was kissed by mother nature with talent, like LeBron James or [Usain] Bolt.
“He only has to become a bigger leader on the field, the moral abilities are there. But he is only 25 years old and there is too much responsibility for him.”
While Pogba, who has also been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona, could form part of Juventus’ future, their present is very much about another global superstar.
Cristiano Ronaldo was acquired from Real Madrid over the summer in an effort to help the Bianconeri cement their domestic dominance while challenging for Champions League honours.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has offered glimpses of what he is capable of and Chiellini is delighted to have him on board.
He added: “Ronaldo? He’s amazing.
“His decision to prove himself again at 33 was huge. His winning mentality managed to fill the gap left in the group by Buffon’s farewell.
“Cristiano is a beacon and point of reference, he leads with a positive attitude. In addition to his goals, assists and shots, he’s an exemplary figure. I see him calm and he works with a smile on his face.
“Juve unbeatable? Absolutely not: if we don’t face the matches in the right way or use our heads, we become vulnerable like everyone else. Barcelona and Real Madrid taught us that.”
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