OFFICIALLY OFFICIAL: Medhi Benatia’s loan deal becomes a permanent move

Juventus announced this morning via twitter, that Medhi Benatia was no longer a Bayern Munich loanee, but rather a full-time Juventus player, signing a contract until 2020.

The official press release cites the finances as follows:

Turin, 12 May 2017 - Juventus Football Club S.p.A. has exercised the option right for the definitive acquisition of the registration rights of the player Medhi El Mouttaqui-Benatia from FC Bayern Munchen AG for a consideration of € 17 million to be paid two financial years.

Juventus and the player signed a contract of employment until 30 June 2020.

Benatia arrived from Bayern on July 15th, and has since made 20 appearances (W/S), totaling 1096 minutes. His lone goal was an important one, as part of the 2-1 victory over Milan in March.

Although the price could be considered steep, or better used elsewhere, it would be hard to argue that Benatia doesn’t provide quality depth to the backline, especially compared to some of the other European elite clubs. With an aging core of central defenders (aside from Rugani, obviously), it might not be a bad idea to carry an extra one that can slot in at least decently. And that’s just what we should expect from Benatia, for years to come.