Monaco are in advanced talks with Juventus regarding a loan move for forward Loïs Openda, according to reports in Italy. The 24-year-old Belgian international has struggled to make an impact since joining Juventus from RB Leipzig last summer for a fee exceeding €40 million.
Openda has scored just twice in 34 appearances across all competitions for the Turin club, finding the net against Roma in Serie A and Bodo/Glimt in the Champions League. His disappointing form has led to Juventus seeking a solution to offload the player, and manager Luciano Spalletti appears to have deemed him surplus to requirements. The club are reportedly keen to avoid registering a financial loss on the transfer.
Despite his struggles in Italy, Openda has attracted interest from several clubs, including Eintracht Frankfurt and Nottingham Forest. However, Monaco have emerged as the frontrunners, having already established positive contact with the player’s representatives. The proposed deal is currently structured as a loan with an option to buy, though no formal offer has yet been presented to Juventus.
This potential transfer could represent a continuation of a developing relationship between Monaco and Juventus. Last summer, Monaco purchased midfielder Denis Zakaria from the Bianconeri for just over €20 million, and the Swiss international has since become a key player and captain for the Ligue 1 side. Former Juventus player Paul Pogba also currently plays for Monaco after terminating his contract with the Italian club.
Openda has prior experience playing against Monaco, featuring for 90 minutes in a Champions League group stage match against them in January while at Juventus. The match ended in a 0-0 draw, with Juventus ultimately progressing to the playoff round. A move to Monaco would offer Openda the opportunity to rebuild his career in a different league and potentially reignite his form.
