Joao Mario exit: Juventus eye two replacements

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus are already reconsidering the summer investment made in Joao Mario. The Portuguese full-back arrived from Porto last summer, in an exchange that sent Alberto Costa to Portugal.

His arrival was meant to add energy and presence on the right side. However, the plan has not worked as expected. Joao Mario initially found some room in the lineup under former coach Igor Tudor, showing flashes of his physical potential and tactical discipline.

Everything changed after the appointment of Luciano Spalletti. The new coach introduced different tactical priorities and sharper competition for defensive roles. Under Spalletti, Joao Mario has played only around 4 percent of available minutes.

Joao Mario 📸

This number reflects how far he has slipped in the internal hierarchy. His absence on the field has become one of the most discussed issues within the club’s technical staff.

The current situation suggests a relationship that is struggling to take off. Juventus did not expect immediate domination from the player, but they did expect consistent contribution.

The opposite has occurred. Because of this underwhelming impact, the club is analyzing solutions to reinforce the right flank during the upcoming transfer windows.

Possible replacments: Nahuel Molina and Gusto in view

Nahuel Molina 📸

Again, La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Juventus are evaluating several profiles. The first name is Nahuel Molina of Atletico Madrid. The Argentine full-back, formerly of Udinese and a world champion with Argentina, is no longer untouchable under Diego Simeone.

Juventus have admired him for years and now see a possible opportunity. Atletico Madrid, however, value him highly. The Spanish club would likely request at least 20 million euros to start negotiations. This creates a delicate financial challenge.

Malo Gusto 📸

A second option is Malo Gusto of Chelsea. The French defender, born in 2003 and developed at Lyon, is considered one of the most promising right-backs in Europe. Juventus appreciate his technical quality, pace, and long-term potential.

However, acquiring him in the middle of the season appears difficult, both economically and strategically, as Chelsea count on him for squad depth. Juventus’ management, currently led on the market by DG Damien Comolli while waiting for the appointment of a new sporting director, has a clear goal.

If Spalletti keeps favoring a four-man defensive line, the team needs a true specialist on the right. Joao Mario’s future in Turin already appears uncertain. The search for a new right-back is fully underway.

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