Juventus are looking to bolster their defensive lineup amid an injury crisis that has left the team’s backline severely depleted. With Bremer and Juan Cabal sidelined due to long-term injuries, and Danilo effectively separated from the squad while awaiting contract resolution, manager Thiago Motta has been forced to rely heavily on the partnership of Federico Gatti and Pierre Kalulu, with midfielder Manuel Locatelli occasionally dropping back to assist in defence.
Tuttosport report how the Bianconeri have been exploring various options in recent weeks, reaching out to several high-profile defenders including Fikayo Tomori, Kevin Danso, David Hancko, Ronald Araujo, and Antonio Silva. However, none of these pursuits have yet materialized into the defensive reinforcement that Sporting Director Giuntoli has been seeking. While negotiations for some of these players remain ongoing, with Tomori from Milan currently topping the January wishlist and Feyenoord’s Hancko a potential summer target, Juventus is also considering more immediate alternatives.
Two new names have emerged as potential solutions: Lilian Brassier and Thomas Kristensen. Brassier, a versatile defender capable of playing both as a centre-back and left-back, is currently on loan at Marseille from Brest. The 24-year-old Frenchman has attracted interest from Italian clubs in the past, including Milan and Bologna, and could now find his way to Turin. With 10 appearances this season, Brassier is seen as a player ready to make the leap to a top European club, with a price tag around €10 million.
Thomas Kristensen, three years younger than Brassier, has been impressing at Udinese this season. The Danish defender, standing at an imposing 198 cm, has shown his ability to play both as a central defender and right-back. His familiarity with Serie A makes him an attractive option for immediate integration. While his current valuation is around €5 million, Udinese may demand a higher fee for a January transfer.
These two players represent Juventus’ Plan B as the January transfer window enters its final weeks. The club recognizes the need to have alternative options ready, given the urgency of their defensive situation. As the clock ticks down on the transfer period, Juventus remains committed to strengthening their squad, with these defensive reinforcements potentially playing a crucial role in their aspirations for the remainder of the season.
