Revealed: Juventus goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio - who starred in Champions League victory over Man City - snubbed Liverpool transfer in the summer

The Italian shot-stopper, who made his name at Monza, chose to join Juventus after being crowned the Best Serie A Goalkeeper for the 2023-24 season. He signed a long-term contract with Juventus, binding him to the club until 2028, after the Bianconeri agreed to pay €14 million (£12m/$15m) for his services. However, Di Gregorio had the option to leave Italy and set sail for the English shores as Liverpool were one of the clubs interested in getting him.

Di Gregorio’s agent, Matteo Belloni, shed light on the summer transfer saga, confirming that the Reds indeed approached the goalkeeper with a lucrative offer before agreeing a pre-contract with Valencia's Giorgi Mamardashvili.

“We said no to Liverpool in the summer to join the Juventus project," Belloni told Tuttosport.

"He’s working hard to improve continuously. He set up a gym at home so he could train on his days off. He has an incredible mentality, and his desire is to be part of a Juventus side that rewrites history and wins important trophies.”

Di Gregorio's contributions have already proven vital, with a stellar performance in Juventus' 2-0 triumph over Manchester City in a recent Champions League clash. He showcased his exceptional shot-stopping skills, denying both Erling Haaland and Ilkay Gundogan with spectacular saves, that piled more misery on Pep Guardiola's troops.

“Surely, Manchester City fans will remember his saves for a long time,” the goalkeeper’s agent added.

Di Gregorio’s form this season has been nothing short of remarkable. He has managed nine clean sheets in 15 matches across all competitions for Juventus, conceding a mere ten goals. In October, Di Gregorio’s excellent performances caught the attention of Luciano Spalletti leading to his first call-up to the Italian national team. Although he was an unused substitute in matches against Belgium and Israel, the recognition underscores his potential to make an impact on the international stage in the near future.

Di Gregorio will be in action against Venezia on Saturday evening in a Serie A fixture while Liverpool will host Fulham in the Premier League.