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Juventus explores options for the flanks: Molina, Zhegrova and …

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1 year ago

August 18, 2025

Juventus is actively searching for reinforcements on the wings, with plans extending beyond just Nahuel Molina. The club has reopened talks for the Argentine right-back, while also showing renewed interest in Edon Zhegrova from Lille.

Fabiana Della Valle reports that these moves come amid ongoing player sales and tactical adjustments ahead of the new season. The recent minutes Douglas Luiz played against Atalanta could mark the end of his brief time at Juventus.

Having entered the pitch at the 90th minute, Luiz barely had time to settle before negotiations with Nottingham Forest reignited. Similarly, Nico Gonzalez, who started in that match but failed to impress, seems set to return to Atletico Madrid.

These two significant departures could generate 60 to 70 million euros in revenue for Juventus. The funds would likely fuel the permanent signing of Randal Kolo Muani, a top priority for coach Igor Tudor, and possibly another key addition.

Molina leads the race, but Edon Zhegrova returns into focus

Recent developments reveal that Juventus has resumed talks with Atletico Madrid for Nahuel Molina. Once considered off the market, the Spanish club has now opened the door for his departure, setting a price tag near 25 million euros.

Juventus appreciates Molina’s Serie A experience and his international pedigree, having won the 2022 World Cup and two Copa America titles with Argentina. At 27 years old, he is seen as a mature and reliable option for the right flank.

However, Juventus is not limiting itself to Molina. Arnau Martinez from Girona, a promising young defender, has also caught the club’s attention.

Martinez, who has been offered to Napoli and Roma, presents a more affordable alternative, priced around 15 million euros. He is versatile, blending technical skill, stamina, and precision in passing — qualities that could benefit Juventus in the long term.

At the same time, Edon Zhegrova has reemerged as a viable candidate. The Kosovo international, now at Lille, was previously targeted during Cristiano Giuntoli’s tenure as director of football.

With Nico Gonzalez potentially leaving and Teun Koopmeiners set for a midfield role, Zhegrova’s attacking style could fill an important gap. Unlike Molina and Martinez, Zhegrova is more of an offensive winger, capable of playing both as a forward and behind the strikers, offering creativity and pace.

Negotiations, challenges and strategic moves

Despite interest, Zhegrova’s situation remains complicated. He was notably absent even from Lille’s bench in their Ligue 1 match against Brest. This signals that the player is out of the club’s future plans, primarily due to contract issues.

His current deal expires in 2026, but he has declined to renew, leading Lille to sideline him. This scenario echoes Dusan Vlahovic’s past experience with Juventus, where contract disputes impacted playing time.

Lille remains firm on their valuation of Zhegrova, demanding between 20 and 25 million euros. This asking price is steep, not only for Juventus but also for Marseille, who are more advanced in their pursuit of the player.

However, Juventus’ new general manager, Damien Comolli, has solid relationships with French clubs, especially Lille’s president Olivier Letang. This connection could prove crucial in finding a deal beneficial for all parties involved.

Meanwhile, Juventus is also exploring cost-effective midfield options like Matt O’Riley from Brighton, potentially on loan, to add depth and tactical flexibility. The club’s focus has shifted somewhat from central midfield to strengthening the wings, aiming for a balanced squad under Igor Tudor’s vision.

Juventus faces a busy summer, balancing important sales with strategic acquisitions. Molina remains the frontrunner for the right flank, but Zhegrova’s creative flair could offer a different dimension. Arnau Martinez stands as a promising, affordable option for the future. With financial gains from Luiz and Gonzalez’s departures, Juventus is poised to strengthen their squad significantly.