Calcio Mercato: Juve sign Pirlo and Ziegler

The 2010-2011 season has only just been laid to rest and already the mercato has kicked off, not that it should surprise any of us. Milan had decided not to offer Andrea Pirlo another contract therefore shedding themselves of one of footballs great play makers over recent years and as a consequence free up some space on their wage bill as well. Somewhat unsurprisingly he heads to Juventus, and having already played for Inter Milan as well he completes, or at least will do when he takes to the pitch, the set of playing for all three of Italy's biggest clubs. Joining him at the old lady will be Sampdoria's Reto Ziegler, the highly rated left back who will be filling a position in the Juve line up that has been somewhat problematic over the last few campaigns.  

Both these deals raise interesting consequences as to both any concrete move for Alberto Aquilani and Lyon's Michel Bastos. Of course there is the possibility that he could be played at left wing rather than left back but any tactical analysis of what to expect from Juve next season remains worthless until it is announced as to who will sit on the bench in the new Stadio Delle Alpi. One thing is for sure and that is given the last two abysmal campaigns for the Turin giants at lot more will be expected of them, not least because they have nothing but Serie A to focus on next season.