Juventus have missed out on signing Kalidou Koulibaly as Napoli sold their long-serving defender to Chelsea earlier this week. With Matthijs de Ligt increasingly heading toward the Allianz Stadium exit, the record-time Serie A champions are frantically looking for defensive reinforcements.
Perennial Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich have earmarked the Dutch centre-back as one of their priorities. After landing Sadio Mane from Liverpool, the Bavarians are now keen to strengthen their backline. De Ligt’s name features Hasan Salihamidzic’s shortlist close to the top as Bayern already made contact with Juventus.
Italian publication Gazzetta dello Sport took stock of Juve’s potential summer targets this morning. Six names are reportedly in the mix as Massimiliano Allegri looks to add to his defensive options in the coming weeks. Regardless of de Ligt’s future, Juventus must find a long-term replacement for Giorgio Chiellini.
After 17 years, the legendary central defender waved goodbye to Turin at the end of last season. As per the Italian newspaper, Villarreal’s Pau Torres is a viable candidate to fill the vacancy. Manchester United have abandoned their long-term interest in the Spaniard, paving the way for Juventus.
However, Torres’ excessive €50m price tag remains a stumbling block. That leaves Gleison Bremer as another concrete target. The highly-rated Torino star was named the best defender in Serie A last season. Yet, Juventus would have to beat Inter to secure the Brazilian’s signature.
Gabriel Magalhaes of Arsenal is another profile considered by the Bianconeri hierarchy. But following an impressive 2021/22 Premier League season, the Gunners have no intention of letting their high-performance rearguard leave north London this summer.
Widely considered one of Europe’s finest defensive talents, Benoit Badiashile has found his name on Allegri’s shopping list. Monaco have pinned a €30m price tag on the Frenchman’s head. But at 21, he may well be worth that money.
Borussia Dortmund stalwart Manuel Akanji could be on his way out of the Signal Iduna Park after five years. After being rejected by Arsenal, the Swiss international could continue his career in Serie A. His contract in Germany runs until next season, giving Juventus a reason to put them on their list.
Last but not least, wantaway Paris Saint-Germain centre-half Presnel Kimpembe could be Allegri’s go-to option to replace Chiellini. He has lost his place in Paris’ starting XI and is eager to start a new adventure away from Ligue 1.