Despite losing Federico Chiesa, Juventus are keener on adding a pure striker rather than a winger. Gianluca Scamacca is their top target, but Sassuolo are highly unlikely to sell him in January. Plus, it would take a mammoth investment, which they are not in a position to do. They have opened talks for Sardar Azmoun as a possible cheaper alternative.
The Iranian forward was on Roma and Atalanta’s radar last summer and is on an expiring contract. Juventus could sign the 27-year-old striker only on loan, Gianluca Di Marzio reports. They have a spot open to acquire an extra-EU player, but only temporarily as Douglas Costa joined Gremio with the same formula.
Azmoun has scored 10 goals in 15 appearances across all competitions, including two in Champions League. He has also been linked to Bayer Leverkusen and Olympique Lyonnais. Zenit want to find a replacement before letting go of their ace.
As for Scamacca, his price tag is increasing by the day. It would take at last €30/35M to acquire him. Sassuolo are holding out since his value will continue to go up given his strong performances. Juventus will try to make a move to take the Neroverdi striker off the market even without bringing him in immediately. They are fearful of the competition coming from Inter, which are pursuing him for next summer, Alfredo Pedullà informs. The Italian center-forward has bagged 8 goals in 20 matches so far, and a few more teams could join the race as well.