Juventus are focusing their efforts on bolstering their attack with either Randal Kolo Muani of Paris Saint-Germain or Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace, according to reports from TuttoSport. The two players, who recently competed for a spot in the French national team, are now vying for a starting position with the Turin club.
Mateta narrowly edged out Kolo Muani for a place in Didier Deschamps’ squad for the World Cup, benefitting from a strong finish to the season including a crucial goal in the Conference League final. Kolo Muani, in contrast, experienced a difficult campaign with Tottenham. Both players are of similar age – Mateta born in 1997 and Kolo Muani in 1998 – and have attracted the attention of Juventus for several months, with manager Luciano Spalletti specifically requesting attacking reinforcements.
Juventus reportedly prefer Kolo Muani, having tracked the player for multiple transfer windows. However, negotiations with PSG have stalled over the transfer fee. Juventus have offered a loan deal with an obligation to buy for €38 million if they qualify for European competition, while PSG are holding out for at least €50 million. The club is exploring potential solutions, including offering a 20% sell-on clause to incentivize the French side.
Should a deal for Kolo Muani prove unattainable, Juventus are prepared to turn their attention to Mateta. The Crystal Palace striker has reportedly put potential contract extensions with his current club on hold, hoping for a move to a top European side. Manchester United expressed interest earlier in the summer, but did not follow up with a formal offer. Juventus previously considered Mateta in January, offering a similar deal to the one currently on the table, but the transfer fell through due to a minor injury that would have sidelined him until March. The player is now fit and available.
The competition between Kolo Muani and Mateta extends beyond the club level, with both players likely to be in contention for a place in the French national team under new manager Zinedine Zidane. It remains possible that Juventus may pursue other attacking options, potentially leaving both players without a move this summer.
