Juventus’ and Tottenham Hotspur’s paths may cross more than once in the January transfer window as the Old Lady’s transfer plans have come to light.
Spurs historically have not done much business in the winter transfer window, tending to make the bulk of their signings and sales during the summer.
That has also been the case under the new leadership, headed by CEO Vinai Venkatesham, with the club only signing Conor Gallagher and youngster Souza in January of this year, despite looking in danger of being dragged into a relegation battle, which they eventually were.
It remains to be seen if this January window will be different, with reports indicating that Tottenham are not just looking for reinforcements to their forward line, but also to their defence.
Juventus will challenge Tottenham for Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde
It was first reported by Sport last week that Tottenham are one of several clubs who are plotting a move for Barca left-back Alejandro Balde.
It was alleged that the defender had already told his agent, Jorge Mendes, to sound out interested clubs, and that the Catalan club would be willing to sell the player for around €40m (£33.3m).
However, TuttoMercatoWeb have now indicated that Spurs could face strong competition from Italy for the 23-year-old full-back.
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The outlet claims that Juventus have prioritised signing a left-back in January and the Barcelona star is their ‘dream’ signing.
However, it is revealed that competition from around the continent could make the Bianconeri’s pursuit of Balde ‘complicated’ in the upcoming transfer window.
It is further explained that Juve would like to sign the Spain international on an initial loan deal with a conditional obligation to buy if they qualify for the Champions League.
This desire has made their pursuit more ‘complex’ as it is unclear if the Catalan club would be willing to agree to such a formula.
Juve could turn to Destiny Udogie if they do not get Balde
TMW say that if the Serie A clubs are unsuccessful in their attempts to strike a deal for Balde, they could turn to Tottenham’s Destiny Udogie.
The report points out that Udogie has now fallen behind Andy Robertson in the Spurs pecking order, and asserts that the Italy international is demanding more playing time.
However, just two weeks ago, journalist Pete O’Rourke insisted that the Tottenham left-back will not ask to leave in January despite attracting interest from Italy.
O’Rourke added that the 23-year-old is very much part of Roberto De Zerbi’s plans, and Spurs will not entertain any offers for the player mid-season.