Juventus are in talks with Atletico Madrid regarding a potential swap deal involving midfielder Nico Gonzalez and American player Johnny Cardoso, according to reports from TuttoSport. Atletico manager Diego Simeone is keen to retain Gonzalez, who has become a key player for the Spanish side, despite their recent Champions League final defeat to Arsenal.
However, Atletico are prepared to negotiate a reduced fee for Gonzalez, initially valued at €32 million, potentially around €20 million, reflecting his remaining book value. The club is also hoping to include a player in the deal to further facilitate the transfer. Juventus were initially due to receive the full €32 million from a previously agreed option to buy, but Atletico have communicated their revised position.
Cardoso, who joined Atletico from Real Betis last year for €24 million, has not fully established himself in the team and Atletico are open to offers. The proposed swap would represent a similar valuation for both players, though Juventus may seek a slight advantage in the deal. Juventus are also considering other midfield options who possess more extensive experience to complement Manuel Locatelli and Aurelio Thuram.
Separately, Juventus have also expressed interest in Roma’s Nicolò Pisilli, a 2004-born winger who has impressed coach Luciano Spalletti. However, Roma manager Daniele De Rossi is reluctant to let Pisilli leave, viewing him as a key part of the future and unwilling to part with a homegrown talent despite potential financial gains. Gasperini is also keen to hold onto Pisilli, believing he has significant potential for further development. The pursuit of Pisilli is currently a preliminary inquiry as Juventus explore alternatives should the Gonzalez deal fall through.
Gonzalez originally joined Atletico Madrid on loan from Juventus last summer, and his performances have been a positive for the club, even as tactical adjustments were made by Simeone. A final agreement on Gonzalez’s future is expected to be reached soon, with a price tag of around €30 million still being discussed.
