Juventus is actively working to find a replacement for Brazilian defender Gleison Bremer, who suffered a severe cruciate ligament injury that will likely sideline him for the remainder of the season. The club’s management, led by Football Director Cristiano Giuntoli, is exploring various options to provide coach Thiago Motta with a suitable replacement.
Motta, known for his philosophy of intense play and ball possession, has also proven to be highly focused on defensive solidity. This was evident in his previous stint at Bologna, where his team boasted the third-best defense in Serie A. At Juventus, he maintained a clean sheet for the first six matches of the current season.
Tuttosport report that the injury to Bremer has significantly altered Juventus’ defensive landscape. While the squad was deemed numerically sufficient during the summer, allowing for the departures of Rugani and Djalò, the Brazilian’s absence has forced a reevaluation. Motta’s reservations about Danilo and Cabal’s performances have further limited the available options.
Juventus has explored the free agent market but found no suitable profiles matching Motta’s requirements. The club is now considering several targets for the January transfer window. Jorrel Hato, Ajax’s 18-year-old prodigy, is on their radar, but his high price tag poses a challenge. Sam Beukema from Bologna and Jakub Kiwior from Arsenal are currently the primary objectives. Beukema worked with Motta at Bologna last season, while Kiwior played under him at Spezia.
Internal solutions are also being considered. These include promoting Pedro Felipe from the Next Gen team or recalling some of the young players currently on loan, such as Facundo Gonzalez from Feyenoord or Muharemovic from Sassuolo.
The club’s financial situation will play a crucial role in their decision-making process. One potential source of funds could come from resolving the Arthur situation. The Brazilian midfielder is attracting interest from Marseille, where former Juventus player Benatia is an advisor, and continues to be on Fiorentina’s radar. A solution to the Arthur dilemma could provide Juventus with significant financial relief, potentially facilitating their search for Bremer’s replacement.
