Juventus continue their search for a marquee striker this summer, with Randal Kolo Muani remaining the club’s priority target.
However, as negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain remain complicated, the Bianconeri are keeping a close eye on Jean-Philippe Mateta, who is once again emerging as a serious alternative.
According to Nicolò Schira, the two French forwards find themselves competing for the same destination, much like they recently did for a place in the French national team.
Kolo Muani Remains Juventus’ First Choice
Kolo Muani has been Juventus’ preferred attacking target across multiple transfer windows, including his arrival on loan in January 2025.
Luciano Spalletti has reportedly made it clear that strengthening the attack is one of his top priorities, and the PSG striker continues to top the club’s shortlist.
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Despite Juventus’ determination, reaching an agreement with PSG has proven difficult. The Bianconeri, led by CEO Giovanni Carnevali, have reportedly offered a package worth around €38 million, structured as a paid loan with an obligation to buy should the club qualify for European competition.
Paris Saint-Germain, however, are standing firm and continue to demand at least €50 million for the French international.
The gap remains significant, and Juventus may need to explore more creative solutions, such as including a sizeable sell-on clause, to convince the Ligue 1 champions to lower their demands.
Mateta Ready If PSG Talks Collapse
Should the Kolo Muani deal fail to progress, Juventus are prepared to revive their interest in Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta.
The 1997-born forward has reportedly put contract extension talks with Crystal Palace on hold as he hopes to secure a move to a top European club.
Manchester United previously showed interest earlier this summer but never advanced beyond initial enquiries, leaving the door open for Juventus.
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The Turin giants had already come close to signing Mateta in January, when negotiations reportedly reached an advanced stage with a deal worth around €33 million, including a loan with an option to buy.
However, a minor injury suffered by the striker forced Juventus to step back from the transfer.
Now fully fit, Mateta is once again attracting attention from the Bianconeri, who believe his physical profile and goalscoring ability could make him an ideal fit for Serie A if the pursuit of Kolo Muani ultimately falls through.
As Nicolò Schira reports, Juventus’ striker search could ultimately come down to one of these two French forwards.
Whether it is Kolo Muani or Mateta, the club is expected to make a decisive move before the transfer window closes as Spalletti awaits a major reinforcement in attack.