Juventus sound the alarm after City drubbing | OneFootball

Juventus are pushing for significant changes at the back after a bruising defeat to Manchester City exposed worrying defensive shortcomings, as outlined in recent coverage from Gazzetta dello Sport, Spazio J, Bianconera News, and Corriere dello Sport.

A run of lacklustre displays, culminating in conceding five goals to City at the Club World Cup, has heightened urgency within the club to reinforce the rearguard. Gleison Bremer’s return from injury offers some relief, but with Nicolò Savona sidelined by a serious ankle problem and question marks hanging over several squad members, coach Igor Tudor has been clear with management: new defensive quality is essential.

Tudor’s top target is Leonardo Balerdi of Marseille, a player he managed at his former club. The Argentine centre-back, 25, is seen as tactically adaptable and mentally equipped for Serie A demands, able to operate across all roles in a three-man defence. As Gazzetta dello Sport reports, Tudor has told directors that “Leonardo has the right character and timing needed for Serie A,” and his familiarity with the coach’s approach makes him the clear priority. Balerdi recently extended his contract with Marseille to 2028, and the French side have so far resisted opening concrete negotiations. Any deal could require a bid beyond €20 million, with some sources suggesting a starting valuation of up to €35 million.

Outgoing moves are also expected before any headline signing. Daniele Rugani, back from loan, has yet to play under Tudor and is a likely departure, while Tiago Djalò is already seen as surplus. Lloyd Kelly—signed from Newcastle for around €30 million in January—has failed to convince and may return to the Premier League, possibly on loan. At least one or two sales appear necessary to free up space for reinforcements and balance the books.

Beyond Balerdi, Juventus are assessing alternatives if Marseille dig in. Nayef Aguerd (West Ham), Jhon Lucumí (Bologna), Julian Chabot (Stuttgart), and Ronald Araújo (Barcelona) are all being monitored, but none currently satisfy coaching and management to the same degree as Balerdi. The club has also shown interest in Flavien Boyomo of Osasuna, who carries a €25 million release clause. Juventus could test the waters with an initial offer between €12 and €15 million, though it remains unclear if that will be enough.

Younger options are being tracked as well. Cristhian Mosquera (Valencia, 20) is under consideration, with Juventus reportedly ready to offer €25–30 million, but the Premier League, notably Arsenal, provide stiff competition for the Spaniard’s signature.

Director Damien Comolli is deeply involved in negotiations from the Juventus base in Orlando, holding regular discussions with Tudor as they aim to deliver a new defensive linchpin. Until deals progress, uncertainty remains, but the one certainty is Juventus’ determination to rebuild their defence for the coming campaign.

Sources: Gazzetta dello Sport, Spazio J, Bianconera News, Corriere dello Sport, JNetwork24, Tutto Juve

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