The winter transfer window is yet to reopen in Europe, but the football world is already abuzz with potential moves and rumors. One particular transfer that has caught the attention is Juventus’ reported interest in Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Pierre-Emile Højbjerg. According to Calciomercato, Juventus sees Højbjerg as a priority signing to bolster their midfield, especially in light of the suspensions of Nicolo Fagioli and Paul Pogba. Currently sitting four points behind Serie A leaders Internazionale, Juventus aims to strengthen their squad while also managing their budget effectively. The Italian giants are primarily considering loan deals with an option to make the move permanent rather than an obligation.
Højbjerg the Preferred Option for Juventus
While other players, like Manchester City’s Kalvin Phillips, have been considered, Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri believes that Højbjerg’s attributes align better with their requirements. Allegri is wary of Phillips’ similarities with Manuel Locatelli and wants a distinct player to fill the midfield void. Atletico Madrid has reportedly turned down Juventus’ advances for Rodrigo De Paul, prioritizing their plans for Lazar Samardzic. Napoli has also shown interest in Samardzic, but Højbjerg remains the preferred option for Juventus. The 28-year-old Danish midfielder desires more playing time and wants to leave Spurs, and his agents and intermediaries have made Juventus their priority, despite other clubs showing interest.
Spurs’ Stance on Højbjerg’s Future
However, Tottenham Hotspur is reluctant to loan out Højbjerg, especially with the impending loss of players during the Africa Cup of Nations. They are demanding a substantial transfer fee of €25 million or a loan deal with easily achievable triggers for a permanent move. Negotiations are expected to take time, but Juventus is making efforts to secure Højbjerg’s services, and the player himself hopes that the transfer goes ahead.
Napoli’s Pursuit of Lazar Samardzic
Aside from Juventus’ pursuit of Højbjerg, Napoli has reportedly made a verbal offer to Udinese for Lazar Samardzic. The proposal includes a base transfer fee of €19 million, with add-ons totaling €4 million to €5 million. Napoli views the 21-year-old Serbian midfielder as an ideal replacement for Eljif Elmas, who is set to join RB Leipzig. The Pozzo family, who own Udinese, needs to consider the offer, while Napoli tries to seal the deal ahead of their rivals.
Real Madrid is in search of a goalkeeper who can eventually succeed Thibaut Courtois, and they have set their sights on Peñarol’s Randall Rodriguez, as reported by AS. This potential move comes in anticipation of Andriy Lunin’s departure from Los Blancos in search of regular game time. Additionally, it is unlikely that Real Madrid will make Kepa Arrizabalaga’s loan from Chelsea permanent. They see Rodriguez as a prospect who could serve as a long-term solution in goal.
Interest in Paris Saint-Germain’s Carlos Soler
LaLiga clubs Sevilla, Real Betis, and Villarreal are all monitoring the situation of versatile Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Carlos Soler, according to Foot Mercato. Soler, who has made 14 appearances this season, is likely to stay put, despite the interest from the Spanish clubs. The 26-year-old midfielder has been an impactful player for PSG but faces stiff competition for playing time.
Juventus has reportedly beaten Bologna to the signature of Budućnost Podgorica attacking midfielder Vasilije Adzic. By offering €5 million plus a percentage of the funds earned from his next move, Juventus has secured Adzic’s services. The 17-year-old Montenegrin talent is expected to undergo a medical and sign his contract with Juventus. However, he will immediately return to Budućnost Podgorica on loan to continue his development.
Sevilla and Tottenham Battle for Stanis Idumbo-Muzambo
It seems that Sevilla and Tottenham Hotspur are set to compete for the signing of Ajax midfielder Stanis Idumbo-Muzambo. The 18-year-old, who has been playing for Jong Ajax, has decided to turn down any new contract offer from the Dutch club. As a result, he will be available to leave either in January for a fee or as a free agent when his current deal expires in the summer. Both Sevilla and Tottenham view the Belgium U19 international as a promising young talent worth pursuing.
The winter transfer window in Europe may not have opened yet, but clubs are already active behind the scenes, aiming to strengthen their squads and secure key signings. Juventus’ pursuit of Højbjerg and Napoli’s interest in Samardzic highlight the intensifying competition for midfield reinforcements. Real Madrid’s search for a goalkeeper and the interest in Soler showcase the attention LaLiga clubs are paying to player movements. Additionally, Juve’s signing of Adzic and the battle between Sevilla and Tottenham for Idumbo-Muzambo indicate a keen interest in emerging talents. As the transfer window progresses, fans can expect more rumors, negotiations, and done deals to shape the European football landscape.