Atalanta B.C. announce the signing of footballer Merih Demiral from Juventus on a temporary basis, with an option to make the transfer permanent.

Born in Karamursel on 5 March 1998, he is a defender and a Turkey international who, despite being 23 years old, can already boast significant experience both in the Italian league and internationally. This will in fact be his fourth season in Italy after his spells at Sassuolo and Juventus.

A product of the Fenerbahçe youth system, 18-year-old Demiral moved to Portugal to play for Alcanenense and Sporting Lisbon B, before returning to his home country in 2018 to join Alanyaspor. Five months with 16 appearances – all as a starter – and a goal in the Turkish top flight earned him the attention of Sassuolo, who brought him to Italy in 2019. The same went for Serie A, where he only needed a few games (14, always as a starter, with a brace scored against ChievoVerona) to show his great qualities and earn Juventus’ interest. He has worn the black and white shirt for the last two seasons, winning a league title, a Coppa Italia and an Italian Super Cup.

His international experience with the Turkey national team was also significant. After representing his country at junior levels, including Under-17 and Under-19, he made his debut for the senior squad in November 2018, immediately becoming a pillar of their defence and playing 24 games since then, including the last European championships.

Welcome, Merih!