Antonio Silva (foto: Getty Images)
Juventus are pursuing Benfica’s Antonio Silva, who is eager to join, but the Turin club has yet to meet Benfica’s demands. Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo is the backup option.
Italian giant Juventus is pushing to strengthen its squad during the January transfer window. Their primary target is Antonio Silva, the rising star from Benfica and a key player for the Portuguese national team. Despite the player’s desire to join, the Turin side’s latest offer did not meet Benfica’s valuation, but negotiations are expected to continue, according to reports from Italy.
The player’s agent, Jorge Mendes, revealed that Silva is keen on the transfer. “My client strongly wants this transfer, and no other clubs are currently in the race,” Mendes said, emphasizing Silva’s commitment to joining Juventus.
Should talks with Benfica stall, Juventus have lined up an alternative: Ronald Araujo of Barcelona. Despite being a regular starter for Barça in recent seasons, Araujo has yet to feature in La Liga or the Champions League this season due to an injury recovery. Juventus coach Thiago Motta reportedly appreciates Araujo’s defensive qualities and views him as a viable alternative if the Silva deal falls through.
Currently, Juventus are fifth in the Serie A standings. They remain unbeaten so far this season but have drawn 11 matches and won seven. The upcoming fixtures include a heated city derby against Torino, followed by a challenging match away at Atalanta in Bergamo. In the Champions League, Juventus will next face Belgian powerhouse Club Brugge.
If the negotiations for Antonio Silva are successful, it will be interesting to see the final transfer fee, as his release clause is set at a staggering 100 million euros. Juventus may attempt to secure a lower price through continued talks with Benfica.