News

Serie A club eyes Joao Mario; Bianconeri have replacement

Published

9 months ago

January 29, 2026

Joao Mario, the Portuguese right-back born in 2000 and currently on Juventus’ books, appears increasingly likely to leave Turin before the end of the transfer window.

The defender has struggled to make a strong impression under Luciano Spalletti, and as a result, he has been included among the players considered surplus to requirements for the upcoming season.

Despite being part of a Juventus squad undergoing tactical and structural adjustments, João Mario has not managed to secure a stable role in the coach’s plans.

His limited opportunities and the competition in his position have pushed the club to evaluate alternative solutions, both for the player’s development and for squad balance.

Bologna Monitoring the Situation

According to reports from TuttoMercatoWeb, Joao Mario could leave Juventus as early as this transfer window, while still remaining in Serie A.

Bologna have emerged as a concrete option for the Portuguese defender, with the Rossoblù reportedly interested in acquiring him on a loan deal. The Emilia-based club is looking to reinforce its defensive options and sees João Mario as a profile capable of adding depth and energy on the right flank.

A move to Bologna would allow the player to gain valuable playing time in a competitive environment, something that has been difficult to achieve in Turin.

From Juventus’ perspective, a temporary departure could help João Mario regain confidence and showcase his qualities at the top-flight level.

Juventus’ Strategy and Market Domino Effect

Juventus are said to be open to approving the transfer, but only under specific conditions. As highlighted by TuttoMercatoWeb, the Bianconeri would give the green light to Joao Mario’s exit if they are able to finalize a deal for Brooke Norton-Cuffy from Genoa.

The potential arrival of the English full-back would effectively open the door for João Mario’s departure, creating a domino effect in Juventus’ defensive rotation.

In the coming days, developments on both fronts could accelerate. If Juventus succeed in strengthening their right-back position, João Mario’s future may well lie in Bologna, where a new chapter in Serie A could be waiting for him.