Juventus are set to make their first move in the January transfer window with the acquisition of 21-year-old right-back Alberto Costa from Vitoria Guimaraes. This €15 million investment addresses the immediate need left by Danilo’s impending departure and aligns with the club’s future plans. However, Juventus’ sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli has his sights set on bigger targets, particularly in central defense and attack.
Calciomercato report how while the pursuit of Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo continues, with Benfica’s Antonio Silva and Feyenoord’s David Hancko as alternatives, the focus has shifted to the offensive front. Randal Kolo Muani has emerged as the primary target, surpassing interest in Joshua Zirkzee.
Kolo Muani’s situation at Paris Saint-Germain has become increasingly precarious. The French international has been left out of the squad for three consecutive matches, signaling Luis Enrique’s diminishing faith in the player. This comes despite PSG’s significant €95 million investment just 18 months ago. With only two goals in 10 appearances this season and PSG’s ongoing negotiations for Napoli’s Kvicha Kvaratskhelia, Kolo Muani’s opportunities in Paris appear limited.
Juventus see an opportunity, despite competition from Manchester United, Tottenham, and AC Milan. As January progresses, Giuntoli is preparing to make a decisive move. The Italian club is hoping to secure Kolo Muani on a loan with an option to buy. However, PSG prefers a deal with an obligation to buy, seeking to recoup between €50-60 million of their initial investment.
This figure is currently beyond Juventus’ reach, but they may consider a paid loan to bridge the gap. Alternative targets like Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee present their own challenges. Rashford’s high wages and fit within the team raise concerns, while Manchester United shows little inclination to loan out Zirkzee.
