Juventus are prioritizing a move for Real Madrid midfielder Brahim Diaz, according to reports in Italy. The 24-year-old is considered the primary target for manager Luciano Spalletti, though his willingness to leave the Spanish capital remains a significant obstacle.
Diaz has not been a regular starter for Real Madrid, but he is reportedly reluctant to depart despite not being a key figure in the team’s plans. He has a unique distinction of having won league titles in Spain, England, and Italy before the age of 23, raising questions about his potential and value. Juventus are hoping to leverage the good relationship former AC Milan director Massara has with the player to facilitate a deal.
Alongside Diaz, Juventus are also considering several other midfield options. Franck Kessie, recently released by Al Ahli, has expressed interest in joining the club, but is seeking a net salary of over €5 million per season for three years, plus a signing bonus. This demand is proving to be a sticking point in negotiations, as the club is hesitant to meet his financial expectations.
Leon Goretzka of Bayern Munich is another potential target, but his demands are even higher, reportedly including a €10 million signing bonus and a €7 million annual salary. Juventus are concerned that Goretzka’s age and recent performance levels do not justify such a substantial investment. They view Kessie as a more physically robust alternative, particularly after his performance in the recent Africa Cup of Nations.
Other midfielders under consideration include Stanislav Lobotka of Napoli, who has a release clause of €25 million for foreign clubs, and Zambo Anguissa, also at Napoli. A potential swap deal involving Juventus defender Federico Gatti and a Napoli midfielder has also been discussed, but Brahim Diaz remains the priority for Spalletti as he looks to reshape the Juventus midfield.
