Juventus are in talks with Atlético Madrid regarding a potential transfer for defender José Maria Gimenez, according to reports in Italy. The two clubs are engaged in ongoing discussions, facilitated by agents and intermediaries, as both seek to address squad imbalances.
Gimenez, who will captain Uruguay at the upcoming World Cup, has seen his playing time diminish at Atlético under Diego Pablo Simeone, becoming a backup option alongside Clément Lenglet. Despite a recent season hampered by injuries, the 31-year-old is still considered a reliable defender. He has been with Atlético Madrid since 2013 and maintains a strong relationship with Simeone, but reportedly feels his cycle at the Wanda Metropolitano has reached its conclusion.
Juventus are considering Gimenez as they look to reinforce their defensive options, and Atlético are willing to offer a discount on his transfer fee, particularly to a club they view as collaborative in the transfer market. Gimenez currently earns approximately €6 million net per season, a significant expense Atlético are keen to reduce, with his contract running for another two years.
However, any deal is contingent on Juventus resolving the futures of Gleison Bremer and Federico Gatti. The club are hoping to receive a fee close to Bremer’s release clause of €59 million, but offers have yet to meet that valuation. Gatti is also expected to depart, though his market value has decreased, and potential moves to the Premier League are being explored. Juventus are also monitoring other defensive targets, including Kim Min-Jae of Bayern Munich, David Alaba, and Juan Jesus.
Gimenez is reportedly open to a move to Serie A and is flattered by Juventus’s interest. He is not rushing into a decision, preferring to focus on the World Cup before finalizing his future. The defender’s age and recent injury record are factors Juventus are carefully considering, but his leadership qualities and winning mentality are seen as valuable assets.
