Chiellini: 'Dybala isn't worth as much as Neymar'

Paulo Dybala has some work to do if Juventus hopes to collect a transfer fee comparable to the lucrative offers that Barcelona has reportedly received for Neymar, according to teammate Giorgio Chiellini.

Speculation over Neymar's future has been rampant since reports emerged last week that Paris Saint-Germain triggered the €222-million release clause in the Brazilian's contract.

The domino effect of such a transfer has led to speculation that Barcelona has identified Dybala as a successor to Neymar at Camp Nou.

Although Dybala has emerged as one of the brightest young talents in the game, Chiellini warns that Juventus should not expect to collect a fee close to the gargantuan price tag associated with Neymar, who the defender feels is on the cusp of reaching the astronomical level of perennial Ballon d'Or winners Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

"Dybala isn't worth as much as Neymar is today, with all the respect and great esteem that we all have for Paulo," Chiellini told Premium Sport, according to beIN Sports.

"I said it last season, Neymar is at the level of Messi and Ronaldo, and he's their designated heir for the Ballon d'Or.

(Photo courtesy: Action Images)

"Neymar's valuation? They're huge numbers but ones that apply to a player that changes the course of a game and a season almost single-handedly. Therefore it is right for a team to spend a certain figure if they have the opportunity to do so."

Dybala committed his future to Juve in April by extending his contract until 2022. Although there was no buyout clause associated with the contract, Juventus is expected to only consider bids in the region of €90 million to €95 million for the gifted Argentina international.

The 23-year-old, who joined Juve from Palermo for €40 million in 2015, is coming off yet another productive season in Turin after scoring 11 goals and setting up seven assists in 31 Serie A appearances.