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Van der Sar backs Alisson for Juventus and says Yildiz can be next Del Piero

ยทBy Junior Yekini
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Van der Sar backs Alisson for Juventus and says Yildiz can be next Del Piero

Juventus

Edwin van der Sar has backed Alisson Becker as the ideal signing for Juventus, dismissed age as a factor in the decision, and suggested Kenan Yildiz has the potential to become an iconic figure for the club in the mould of Alessandro Del Piero.

The former Juventus and Netherlands goalkeeper, who spent two seasons at the club between 1999 and 2001, was interviewed by La Gazzetta dello Sport on a range of topics ahead of the final weeks of the Serie A season.

On the widespread speculation that Juventus are pursuing Liverpool's Alisson.

"He is one of the best in the world. Having already played in Italy โ€” with Roma โ€” would help him, if it comes to that. Experience is valuable for goalkeepers. It is a question of confidence and serenity. The fact that Alisson is almost 34 is not a problem. There are many goalkeepers who play at a high level into their later years."

He also addressed compatriot David de Gea, the Fiorentina goalkeeper linked with Juventus as an alternative.

"He is exceptional. I spoke with De Gea when he left Manchester United and I am happy that he has had a chance in Italy with a fine club like Fiorentina."

On Yildiz, the 20-year-old Turkish forward who has emerged as one of Juventus' most important players this season.

"I really like Yildiz, one who can become a hero like Del Piero was. He can become that kind of figure for the supporters."

Van der Sar also offered a frank assessment of what Juventus need to close the gap on the top of Italian football, having not won the Scudetto since 2019-20.

"It is a problem for a club like Juventus. They would need two or three signings of the right level โ€” players capable of bringing energy. The last two league games will not be easy. The Fiorentina game is tough with a strong goalkeeper in De Gea, and the Turin derby is always a derby."

He praised head coach Luciano Spalletti without reservation.

"He is a guarantee. It also pleases me to see a legend like Giorgio Chiellini in the management. I saw him in Los Angeles for a coffee and we exchanged some thoughts on the transition from player to director."

Juventus sit third in Serie A with two games remaining, fighting to secure Champions League qualification. They host Fiorentina and then travel to Torino in the final two rounds.