After missing out on key targets like Isak, Sesko, and Nunez, Newcastle urgently needs a central striker, making Dusan Vlahovic a potential acquisition. This deal could pave the way for Sandro Tonali to join Juventus, with other players like Douglas Luiz and Nicolò Savona also possibly involved.
Sandro Tonali celebrates scoring his team`s first goal during a Premier League match. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Some dreams are fleeting, lasting less than a summer, while others endure forever. For Juventus, acquiring Sandro Tonali has been an almost impossible mission – a player the Bianconeri have long coveted, despite knowing the chances of bringing him to Turin are slim. Yet, in the transfer market, nothing is truly impossible, and what seems unattainable can materialize in the blink of an eye. Juventus understands this well, having witnessed the sensational acquisition of Cristiano Ronaldo seven years ago. This experience keeps their hopes alive: a flicker of opportunity is all it takes. Currently, that hope is entirely tied to Dusan Vlahovic. The Serbian striker, who is set to leave Juventus, could potentially reopen negotiations. The Old Lady hopes to orchestrate a deal for their number 9 first, then make a strong push for the Italian midfielder.
The Ideal Midfielder
“We need someone like Tonali” has been a recurring sentiment within Juventus since spring, even before the recent club restructuring. Following last summer`s midfield disappointments, Juventus has become convinced that a top-tier signing is essential to reclaim their dominance. And that `top` player wears the number 8 shirt, albeit for Newcastle, not Juventus. From Igor Tudor to Giorgio Chiellini and Damien Comolli, there`s a consensus that Tonali is the perfect solution for Juventus`s midfield issues. The challenge lies in convincing the English club, who invested heavily (65 million euros plus bonuses), patiently supported him through a 10-month betting ban in 2024, and are now enjoying his performances, especially after winning the League Cup last season and anticipating Champions League participation. Newcastle considers Tonali non-transferable, and he is content in England. However, Serie A remains a significant draw for Italian players. Juventus will attempt to entice both parties by leveraging Vlahovic, banking on Newcastle`s urgent need for a new striker.
Dusan Vlahovic during a Serie A match for Juventus FC. (Photo by ALESSANDRO DI MARCO/ANSA)
A Complex Exchange
Newcastle is on the verge of selling Alexander Isak to Liverpool, with their initial plan being to replace him with either Benjamin Sesko or Darwin Nunez. However, Sesko appears close to Manchester United, and Al Hilal, led by Simone Inzaghi, is strongly favored to sign Nunez. This leaves the Magpies at risk of being without a key striker, prompting them to re-evaluate Vlahovic, who has been re-offered to the club by intermediaries. If Newcastle indicates a willingness to negotiate, Juventus`s management could then try to involve Tonali. This wouldn`t be a direct swap but a more intricate operation, potentially including Douglas Luiz or Nicolò Savona, along with a financial adjustment in favor of the English club, as the valuations of the players involved are not comparable.
Other Midfield Targets
While Tonali is clearly valued higher, Juventus would be willing to make a significant financial sacrifice for a player they consider truly exceptional and irreplaceable. The former AC Milan midfielder possesses both technical skill and physical prowess, capable of bolstering both offensive and defensive phases, thereby significantly enhancing Juventus`s midfield quality. For now, however, he remains a dream, which is why Juventus is simultaneously exploring multiple other avenues. Candidates still under consideration include Yves Bissouma, who is reportedly leaving Tottenham; Danish midfielder Morten Hjulmand from Sporting, who has a 60 million euro release clause; Matt O’Riley from Brighton; former AC Milan player Franck Kessie, now in Saudi Arabia; and Sofyan Amrabat from Fenerbahce. Bryan Cristante of Roma is also a possibility, linked to a potential exchange involving Weston McKennie.
