Carlos Alcaraz’s former team-mate Gabriel Arias is of the view that the Southampton loan star could well follow in the footsteps of Arturo Vidal at Juventus.
Southampton signed the 21-year-old Argentinian from Racing Club in the winter of 2023 and he instantly caught the eye, albeit being unable to help Saints avoid relegation.
Under Russell Martin, Alcaraz played a bit part role in the first half of this season and joined Juventus on loan in the January transfer window.
Arias, who played with Alcaraz during his time at Racing Club, believes that the Southampton loanee has an adaptable playing style like former Juventus star Vidal.
He thinks that Alcaraz can become as important as Vidal was to Juventus and believes that the Southampton star has everything needed to be successful in Serie A.
“‘El Rey’ Arturo Vidal left a very big mark on Juventus”, Arias was quoted as saying by Italian outlet Tutto Mercato.
“The Chilean was the protagonist of many triumphs in the recent history of Italy’s most successful club.
“Effectively, Arturo and Charly have a style of play that is similar.
“It would be great if Carlos could be as important as Vidal has been, and it would be wonderful if he could be a top player in Serie A as well.”
And Arias is sure that Alcaraz has what it takes to succeed, which could mean Juventus triggering the option to keep him and handing Southampton a big pay day.
“I don’t have the slightest doubt: Alcaraz has all the cards to succeed.”
Juventus would have to pay Southampton in the region of €50m to be able to keep the 21-year-old in the summer.
