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3 concrete names for right-back position

Published

2 months ago

April 1, 2026

Juventus may not have felt a constant emergency on the flanks this season, but much of that stability can be credited to Pierre Kalulu.

The French defender has far exceeded expectations, evolving from a simple backup option into a cornerstone of Luciano Spalletti’s tactical system.

Reliable and aggressive in defense, yet consistently proactive in the attacking third, Kalulu has delivered a tireless, injury-free campaign marked by remarkable consistency.

His performances have not gone unnoticed, earning him a deserved and steady recall to the French national team under Didier Deschamps.

Summer Overhaul on the Horizon

Despite Kalulu’s outstanding reliability, Juventus are fully aware that a major revamp of their wide areas will be necessary in the upcoming transfer window.

Several players currently in the squad are expected to depart. Joao Mario and Emil Holm, both brought in between summer and winter, are likely to move on. The same fate appears sealed for Filip Kostic and Juan Cabal, who have struggled to convince the coaching staff after a series of underwhelming displays.

As a result, Juventus are actively exploring multiple options to strengthen the department, with a particular focus on opportunistic free transfers and emerging talents.

According to Tuttosport, one of the most concrete leads is Raphael Guerreiro. The Portuguese full-back is set to leave Bayern Munich on a free transfer, creating a significant market opportunity.

Initial exploratory contacts have already taken place, and while Guerreiro currently earns around €4.2 million net per season in Germany, Juventus are reportedly prepared to offer €3 million annually to secure his services.

Multiple Targets Under Evaluation

Another strong option remains Zeki Celik, who is expected to part ways with AS Roma after rejecting a contract renewal worth €2.8 million per year.

Highly appreciated by Spalletti, Celik has long been admired by sporting director Damien Comolli, who attempted to sign him as far back as 2018. Juventus are now ready to present a three-year deal worth €3 million per season plus bonuses.

Meanwhile, the situation of Brooke Norton-Cuffy remains open. Currently valued at around €15 million by Genoa, the young full-back has attracted interest from the Premier League.

However, Juventus are optimistic thanks to the strong relationship between sporting director Marco Ottolini and the player, dating back to their time at Arsenal.

In the background, Juventus continue to monitor alternative profiles already assessed during the winter window, including Lorenz Assignon, expected to leave VfB Stuttgart, and Kiliann Sildillia of PSV Eindhoven.

The latter is particularly appreciated for his tactical versatility, capable of operating both as a full-back and in central defense—an asset that perfectly aligns with Juventus’ evolving tactical needs.

With a busy summer ahead, Juventus are laying the groundwork for a reshaped and more dynamic squad, aiming to combine experience, flexibility, and long-term potential on the flanks.