A long-running transfer saga over Tiago Djalo’s move from Lille to Juventus is on the verge of a definite conclusion. As per Gianluca Di Marzio, the 23-year-old defender should touch down in Turin at the start of next week to complete his long-awaited transfer.
Juventus have been on Djalo’s trail for over six months. Their interest first surfaced last summer. However, the center-back long-term injury deterred Bianconeri from making a concrete move at the time.
With the Portuguese ace’s contract nearing its expiry, an opportunity has emerged, and Juventus are ready to seize it. The Serie A heavyweights have agreed upon a €3.5m, plus another €3.5m in add-ons, deal with Lille, who’ll earn 10% from a future sale.
After defining the final details with the Ligue 1 outfit, Juventus are making preparations for Djalo’s arrival. The ex-Milan Primavera man will land in Italy on Tuesday or Wednesday for medicals before putting pen to paper on a multi-year contract.
It’s another cost-effective deal Cristiano Giuntoli has pulled off since joining Juventus from Napoli last summer. He brought in Timothy Weah from Lille in his first transfer window in charge.
Juventus initially planned to sign Djalo on a Bosman deal next summer. But they have a defensive emergency at their hands, forcing the club’s hand prematurely.
Djalo may not be at Massimiliano Allegri’s immediate disposal. He’s close to recovering from injury. But after not playing since April, when he suffered a cruciate ligament rupture, it could take some time before he reaches an optimal fitness level.
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