Giuntoli confirms Juventus priority is new defender | OneFootball

Juventus director Cristiano Giuntoli confirms their priority on the transfer market is finding a new central defender rather than a striker, as losing Gleison Bremer ‘was a heavy blow.’

The match with Udinese kicks off at the Bluenergy Stadium at 17.00 GMT.

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from this game, Bologna-Lecce and Monza-Milan on the Liveblog.

The Bianconeri have been leaking goals recently, conceding four against Inter and two with Parma in thrilling comeback draws.

This has fuelled reports that Juve are seeking reinforcements in the January transfer window to replace injured Bremer.

Giuntoli opens door to Juventus investment

Dusan Vlahovic honours Gleison Bremer during Juventus-Cagliari EPA-EFE/Alessandro Di Marco

“Bremer’s injury was certainly a heavy blow, but we have valid solutions within the squad. There were a few problems with rotation amongst injuries, which made us less sharp in some moments,” Giuntoli told DAZN.

The director was asked if he would rather pick up a new defender in January or a striker to act as an understudy to Dusan Vlahovic.

“A defender. I think we can use other players in that attacking role, including Kenan Yildiz. There are alternatives and we believe Milik will be able to give his contribution when he returns.”

Could Milan Skriniar of Paris Saint-Germain be one of the candidates?

“It is premature to talk about the transfer market right now, as things could change in January. We will see.”

Teun Koopmeiners returns to the starting XI after his rib injury, while Yildiz also starts following two consecutive matches as a super-sub.

New coach Thiago Motta made a strong start to his Juventus career after taking Bologna to fifth place in Serie A last season.

“We started with a surprisingly good run of form before the injuries. I admire his honesty and clarity, while he is a coach of great talent. He has a bright future ahead of him,” concluded Giuntoli.