The agent of Leeds United-linked Timothy Weah has criticised Juventus over the way they have treated his client.
USA international Weah was left out of the matchday squad for the Serie A club's Club World Cup clash with Manchester City yesterday. Reports in Italy say Juventus want to sell Weah, the son of former Ballon D’Or winner George Weah, and Samuel Mbangula to Nottingham Forest for a combined fee of €25 million (£21.3m).
A deal for Weah and Mbangula was reportedly agreed but transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano claims Weah has now rejected the chance to move to the City Ground. Romano said Weah has "no intention" of accepting Forest's proposal and negotiations with Juventus for the versatile player are "expected to collapse".
Badou Sambague, Weah's agent, is unhappy with Juventus' conduct during the process and their attempts to pressure his client into a move. After Weah was left out of the Juventus squad for the City fixture, Sambague said: "It's a disgrace. Weah is a fantastic player and fantastic team-mate. To see people acting like this for money and because they are selfish has disappointed me a lot.”
Sambague added: "Anyway, while I'm here, nobody will push one of the players I advise to go on the right or on the left like a puppet. I am happy that Tim has a top education and a top personality that allows him to stay focused on the game."
Guardian journalist Ed Aarons says Premier League clubs United, Bournemouth and Everton have joined the race to sign Weah. The 25-year-old forward, who is capable of playing anywhere from right-back to either wing, notched six goals and four assists in 43 appearances for the Old Lady last season.
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