Massara wants Milan’ defender to replace Gatti

Juventus have once again turned their attention to AC Milan defender Fikayo Tomori as they continue planning defensive reinforcements for Luciano Spalletti.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Bianconeri have reopened their assessment of the England international nearly 18 months after a potential move collapsed due to the player’s decision to stay at Milan.

Tomori is viewed as an experienced and Serie A-proven defender who fits the profile Spalletti is looking for. However, any move will depend on Juventus first creating space in both the squad and the budget through player sales.

Gatti Could Be Sacrificed

Juventus’ transfer strategy under new CEO Giovanni Carnevali is straightforward: aside from the priority signings of a goalkeeper and a striker, new arrivals will only come after departures.

One player who could leave Turin is Federico Gatti. While Spalletti appreciates the Italian defender’s leadership qualities, last season highlighted that he remains behind Gleison Bremer in the pecking order.

The coaching staff also believes the two defenders are not an ideal pairing due to their limitations when building play from the back.

At 28, Gatti is seeking a more prominent role. Under contract until 2030 on a salary exceeding €3 million per season, he also represents a valuable financial asset for Juventus.

With a book value of just €4 million and an asking price of at least €20 million, his sale would generate a significant capital gain.

Napoli admire the defender, with Antonio Conte reportedly a long-time admirer, but the Partenopei must also offload players before making new signings, while interest from Turkey has yet to convince Gatti.

Tomori Back on Juventus’ Radar

With Gatti’s future uncertain, Juventus have revived their interest in Tomori, who was originally signed by Milan from Chelsea in 2021 by current Juventus Chief Football Officer Frederic Massara.

The English defender was already close to joining the Bianconeri in January 2025, when then sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli identified him as the ideal replacement for the injured Bremer.

Tomori, however, chose to remain at Milan despite approaches from both Juventus and Tottenham.

Now, with only one year remaining on his contract and increased competition following Milan’s signing of Mario Gila, the situation has changed. Tomori could be more open to a new challenge if his playing time decreases.

The 28-year-old earns a net salary of €3.5 million per season and, thanks to Italy’s former Growth Decree tax benefits, remains an affordable option.

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that his departure could benefit both clubs: Milan would record a valuable capital gain, while Juventus would secure an experienced defender familiar with Serie A.

For now, though, everything depends on Juventus making sales before launching a concrete move.

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