Bayer Leverkusen`s leader, also previously linked with Milan, is now a prime target for the Bianconeri: experienced, effective, and potentially low-cost. Other objectives and their valuations.
Juventus aims to rebuild the core of Igor Tudor`s team and is reportedly eyeing Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen, a player who had also attracted interest from Milan in recent weeks. The midfield revolution initiated a year ago hasn`t proven sufficient, prompting the club to seek further reinforcements at Continassa. At least one significant signing is anticipated, potentially two if the Bianconeri can effectively offload Douglas Luiz, who was marginalized first under Thiago Motta and now his Croatian successor. Manager Damien Comolli is actively seeking a new club for the Brazilian midfielder while simultaneously exploring multiple options for a central midfielder capable of elevating the department`s overall level. This new addition would complement key players like Khephren Thuram, captain Manuel Locatelli, and the versatile Weston McKennie.
Tudor`s priority is a midfielder who is versatile, dynamic, and proficient in both offensive and defensive phases. The dream signing for Juventus remains Sandro Tonali of Newcastle. However, the path to securing the Italian international appears increasingly challenging each day. The English club is reportedly unwilling to negotiate for less than 60-70 million euros, and even a substantial offer might not be enough to convince them to sell. Consequently, alongside another Italian target, Davide Frattesi of Inter, new avenues are being explored. The latest information points towards Xhaka, a midfielder known for his experience (32 years old) and international pedigree. Throughout his career, he has won trophies with Basel, Arsenal, and notably Bayer Leverkusen, where he was a pivotal leader in their historic Bundesliga triumph under Xabi Alonso in 2023.
Functional and Affordable
José Mourinho wanted Xhaka during his time at Roma, and Igli Tare pursued him in his initial months as sporting director at Milan. Now, Juventus is considering him, provided they can find a new home for Douglas Luiz. Xhaka would not be a long-term investment but rather a player capable of immediately improving those around him and, by extension, the team. He is not considered indispensable at Leverkusen, and having concluded a successful chapter with Xabi Alonso, the player might be intrigued by a new adventure. Adding to his appeal is the economic aspect: a fee of 12-15 million euros might be sufficient to convince Bayer to sell the former Basel player.
Alternatives Explored
While Xhaka is a new target, he is certainly not the only one. Comolli is currently exploring multiple fronts to identify the best opportunity. High on the French manager`s list, in addition to the more expensive Morten Hjulmand from Sporting (formerly Lecce), are Florentino from Benfica and Yves Bissouma from Tottenham. Comolli previously worked at Spurs and has maintained a good relationship with the English club`s hierarchy over the years, which could potentially facilitate a deal for Bissouma. The 28-year-old Malian`s contract is set to expire in 2026, and Tottenham has reportedly become open to selling the former Brighton player. His valuation is estimated to be between 15 and 20 million euros, making a compromise seem achievable. Comolli appreciates Bissouma`s qualities and is currently evaluating the pros and cons of the operation.
A significant consideration is that Bissouma is a non-EU player. Juventus has already allocated one non-EU slot to Jonathan David, a sought-after free agent and the first signing of the new Comolli-Chiellini era. Using the second slot on Bissouma is a possibility, but at the beginning of July, with other areas also requiring restructuring, the club wants to carefully consider this decision to avoid limiting potential non-EU opportunities in attack or defence. This constraint would not apply to Jadon Sancho, who continues to send signals of interest to Juventus. The former Borussia Dortmund player would occupy the slot designated for the first English signing, not a non-EU slot. The former Chelsea player has returned to Manchester United but is not expected to remain there. In fact, while the Red Devils have begun their season, Sancho`s vacation has been extended. Juventus continues to negotiate with Manchester United and the player`s entourage to lower their financial demands.
