Berardi wants game time - Di Francesco

Berardi, 21, has enjoyed three fine Serie A seasons, scoring 38 goals to be linked with a move away.

Juventus were said to retain a buy-back clause for the forward, who they previously co-owned.

However, Berardi is set to stay at Sassuolo and Di Francesco believes his desire to be playing regularly may be behind the decision.

"He's a great guy, who is attached to Sassuolo and myself," he told Il Centro.

"For me, he is ready for a big team, perhaps he thinks that is Sassuolo and therefore he stayed.

"Juve? Maybe he had a fear of not playing enough.

"It's hard to accept the change and I am happy I get to coach him again. I'm looking forward to his growth."