Juventus have quickly identified a new midfield option after Franck Kessié turned down their contract proposal, with Milan’s Youssouf Fofana now emerging as a potential last-minute solution for the Bianconeri.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus have returned to the idea of signing the French midfielder as they look for a financially viable way to strengthen their midfield before the transfer window closes.
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The club’s limited spending power means that, unless they can complete some permanent departures first, their options are largely restricted to players who can arrive on loan or as free agents.
Fofana could therefore become an attractive opportunity for Juventus. The 1999-born midfielder is currently on the fringes of Milan’s squad and could be available on a temporary basis, potentially allowing the Turin club to strengthen without committing to a major transfer fee.
Fofana Could Be the Last-Minute Solution
The proposed formula would reportedly involve a loan move, with Juventus taking responsibility for the player’s salary.
Fofana currently earns around €3 million per year, a figure that would need to be incorporated into the Bianconeri’s financial calculations.
There could also be discussions about including a purchase option in the agreement. That possibility would give Juventus greater flexibility, allowing them to evaluate Fofana during the season before deciding whether to make his move permanent.
For Juventus, the timing is particularly important. The club have already invested significant funds in several summer arrivals, meaning another sizeable permanent transfer would be difficult without generating revenue through player sales.
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A loan deal for Fofana would consequently fit much better with their current financial strategy.
The French midfielder could also offer Juventus physicality, defensive work and experience in Serie A, making him a logical alternative after the collapse of the Kessié operation.
With the transfer window closing on September 1 at 8:00 p.m., Juventus and Milan would have little time to negotiate the details.
After spending weeks pursuing Kessié, the Bianconeri may now have to accelerate talks for Fofana if they want to add another midfielder before the deadline.