Juventus have made a significant move in the winter transfer market by finalizing the acquisition of Alberto Costa from Vitoria Guimaraes. This marks the club’s first signing of the January window, as they aim to bolster their squad under the guidance of coach Thiago Motta.
Fabrizio Romano, Calciomercato and others reports that the agreement for Costa’s transfer has been set at a fee ranging between €12 million and €13 million, with additional bonuses potentially bringing the total to €15 million. The 21-year-old right-back is expected to arrive in Italy this week to undergo medical examinations and officially sign his contract, which will reportedly include an annual salary of €500,000 that may increase over time.
In the current season, Costa has demonstrated his capabilities on the field, making 21 appearances, scoring one goal, and providing three assists over a total of 1,437 minutes played. His performance has caught the attention of several clubs, but Juventus successfully outmaneuvered competition from AS Roma and Sporting Lisbon, who were also interested in his services. Roma shifted their focus to Ajax’s Devyne Rensch after failing to secure Costa.
Juventus’ sporting director, Cristiano Giuntoli, has been keen on balancing youth and experience within the squad. His strategy involves not only signing promising young talents like Costa but also addressing gaps in the team’s defensive lineup. With key players sidelined due to injuries and others potentially leaving, Costa’s arrival is seen as a crucial step in reinforcing the right-back position.
Giuntoli commented on the club’s broader objectives: “The strategy is to strengthen the team in the defensive department and look around to see if there are any opportunities in other departments.” He acknowledged the challenges of finding impactful players during the January transfer window but expressed optimism about upcoming developments.
