Juventus Eyes Premier League Fullbacks Amidst Defensive Search

Juventus strengthened their right-back position in January by acquiring Emil Holm on loan with a purchase option. However, an early injury has delayed assessment of his €15 million buy-out clause, prompting the club to explore alternative targets in England, including Michael Kayode and Djed Spence.

Kayode, a former Fiorentina talent, moved to Brentford for €18 million. He has since made 47 appearances for his current club, contributing two assists. His progress is reportedly being monitored by Gennaro Gattuso, potentially for upcoming World Cup qualifiers. While he developed significantly at Fiorentina, the club ultimately favored Dodo.

Securing either Kayode or Spence would reportedly cost Juventus around €30 million. The Turin giants are said to have a strong relationship with Tottenham Hotspur, and several Spurs players may be available this summer. Spence, aged 25, is primarily right-footed but versatile enough to operate on both flanks. He has accumulated 76 appearances for the London club, following previous stints at Fulham, Middlesbrough, Rennes, and Nottingham Forest.

Spence previously spent half a season at Genoa, under the management of current Juventus director Marco Ottolini. Though deemed a competent performer, his acquisition price was considered too high at the time. A significant investment in a new fullback could potentially pave the way for player sales, with Pierre Kalulu and Andrea Cambiaso both reportedly attracting interest from other clubs.

Our Take on Juventus' Defensive Search

There remains a possibility that Holm will prove to be a suitable option. However, offloading Kalulu appears to be an undesirable move. Andrea Cambiaso, meanwhile, is experiencing another inconsistent, predominantly subpar, season. Should he depart, a left-footed replacement would be necessary, with free agents like Zeki Celik or Oscar Mingueza potentially fitting the role adequately.