Juventus’ January transfer window strategy is set to focus on outgoing moves before any significant acquisitions. Sporting Director Cristiano Giuntoli is juggling multiple negotiations, with the primary goal of generating income or freeing up salary space to accommodate new signings for manager Thiago Motta. Calciomercato report how one player who has been training away from the first team for over six months and doesn’t feature in Motta’s plans is Arthur Melo, whose future could soon take a new turn.
The Brazilian midfielder is at the centre of an important market dynamic involving Roma and French midfielder Enzo Le Fee. Both players were top targets for Real Betis, but Sunderland’s recent move to secure Le Fee on loan with an option to buy has potentially cleared the path for Betis to pursue Arthur on loan.
Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid have emerged as another suitor for Arthur, proposing a loan deal with an option to buy. The Spanish club is seeking a quality midfielder to bolster their squad and reignite their campaign across all competitions. The Atletico-Juventus axis has historically been active, with a notable near-miss involving Moise Kean last January.
The main hurdle in both potential moves remains Arthur’s salary situation. Juventus extended his contract until June 30, 2026, before his loan to Fiorentina, to spread out his hefty amortization costs. However, his annual net salary of €5 million plus €4 million in bonuses was not reduced. Juventus is open to his departure, but negotiations hinge on the portion of his wages that will be covered in any loan deal.
Arthur’s exit, combined with the possible contract termination of Danilo, would provide Giuntoli with more financial flexibility. Essentially, Arthur’s departure could pave the way for Juventus’ first incoming transfer, with Ronald Araujo and Randal Kolo Muani topping the wishlist.
