As the clock ticks down to the end of the transfer window, Juventus finds itself in a race against time to bolster its squad. After securing four signings in June and July, the Bianconeri aim to add four more players to better equip themselves for the five competitions ahead, including Serie A, Coppa Italia, Champions League, Supercoppa Italiana, and the Club World Cup. The need for depth is urgent, as a lengthy schedule demands a robust bench.
The club’s sporting director, Cristiano Giuntoli, has already pinpointed potential reinforcements and has been diligently working to complete the transfer puzzle. One of those pieces has already fallen into place as Pierre Kalulu has officially made the move from AC Milan to Juventus. The 23-year-old defender confirmed his intention to join after discussions with head coach Thiago Motta, who reassured him of his importance to the squad. Despite initial hesitation over the terms of the transfer, which involve a loan deal costing €3.5 million with an obligation to buy set at €14 million plus €3 million in bonuses, Kalulu is now set to start his new chapter in Turin.
Meanwhile, the situations regarding Teun Koopmeiners and Nico Gonzalez appear more complex. Both players are under contract with Atalanta and Fiorentina, respectively, and their clubs are resistant to letting them go. Koopmeiners hasn’t trained with Atalanta recently, indicating a desire to move on, and Juventus remains hopeful of acquiring him, even as they approach the €60 million asking price set by the Bergamasque club. They have already made a bid of €55 million plus bonuses. Atalanta had initially assured the player that they would allow his departure for a suitable offer, especially after signing a replacement, but they now seem hesitant to sell.
On the other hand, Juventus is keen on Nico Gonzalez. While they have reached an agreement on personal terms with the Argentinian, the hurdle remains Fiorentina’s president, Rocco Commisso, who is unlikely to accept anything less than €40 million and may prefer not to sell to Juventus to avoid unrest among fans. There are discussions around bringing in another winger as well, with the club still interested in Porto’s Conceição, despite the Portuguese club’s refusal to consider a loan deal, which Juventus prefers.
Despite these challenges, Juventus remains undeterred, banking on the expertise of Jorge Mendes, Conceição’s agent, to facilitate a potential move. The club’s ambition is clear, but as the transfer deadline looms, every move must be strategic to ensure a successful season ahead.
