Bonucci almost moved to Zenit

Juventus Scudetto winner Leonardo Bonucci was close to joining Zenit St Petersburg before the start of this season.

The Russian club made an offer for the defender after a difficult first season in Turin, but he eventually remained at Vinovo.

“There was a concrete possibility that Bonucci could have gone to Zenit,” agent Davide Torchia told Sky Sport Italia.

Bonucci wasn’t guaranteed a starting shirt at the beginning of the season, but he gradually proved his worth in both a 4-3-3 and a 3-5-2 system. It led to a contract renewal until 2017.

“We’re proud that he was offered an extension before the Scudetto arrived,” added Torchia. “I don’t think he improved just because of the formation change, he grew with the rest of the squad.”

The former Bari stopper was part of a defence which conceded just 20 goals in 38 League games this season.