Juventus in panic mode after City humiliation | OneFootball

After conceding five goals to Manchester City in the FIFA Club World Cup, Juventus face mounting scrutiny over their defensive stability and an urgent need for reinforcements. According to reports from Tutto Juve, JNetwork24, and Spazio J, the heavy defeat has accelerated the Bianconeri’s search for reliable options at the back, with several names being considered.

The performance against City highlighted serious gaps, particularly as coach Igor Tudor rotated his side extensively, exposing a lack of depth and cohesion in defense. As the pressure increases on management to respond, Juventus’ transfer strategy is quickly taking shape.

One prominent target is Bologna’s Jhon Lucumi. Highly rated for his composure and left-footed ability, Lucumi is valued at €25 million and has attracted interest from both Juventus and Roma. His contract expires in 2026, potentially giving the Bianconeri some leverage in negotiations if Bologna are open to a sale.

Another defensive option gaining traction is Axel Disasi of Chelsea. JNetwork24 reports that contacts have intensified between Juventus and the player’s camp, with Disasi’s international experience and physical profile seen as an ideal fit. The French centre-back is reportedly available for around €30 million, but any deal may be contingent on Juventus offloading another defender to create both financial room and squad space.

Leonardo Balerdi (Marseille) and Giovanni Leoni (Parma) are also named as alternatives, though negotiations for either would require significant investment—Parma, for example, value Leoni at €30 million. Additionally, names like Aguerd, Chabot, and Senesi remain under observation, as Juventus weigh the best approach to strengthen their rearguard.

Beyond new recruits, the club is working on internal solutions as well. Federico Gatti is close to a new deal that would tie him to Juventus until 2029, securing at least one pillar for the future.

Tudor himself has been frank about the challenge ahead. Following the City loss, he admitted, “It is never nice to concede five goals… City have much stronger players than us. When they want, they can spend a hundred, even fifty million.” Pundit analysis has echoed his concerns, with calls for decisive action in the transfer market to address four years of persistent defensive issues.

While midfield and attack remain under review—names like Jonathan David and Neil El Aynaoui have been linked—the priority is clear: rebuild a defense capable of competing with Europe’s elite.

With a knockout encounter against Real Madrid on the horizon, the pressure is on Juventus to move swiftly and decisively in the window, turning their defensive alarm into meaningful upgrades.

Sources: Tutto Juve, JNetwork24, Spazio J

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