Last summer marked an unusual moment for Juventus as they outmaneuvered their old colleague at Inter, Beppe Marotta, by snagging Bremer, who seemed destined for the San Siro, right from under Nerazzurri’s grasp.

While not on the same scale due to the transfer fee, Juventus seems to be aiming for a similar feat 18 months later. Recent reports from multiple sources in Italy suggest Juventus has either taken the lead or is fiercely trying to surpass Inter in the pursuit of Lille’s center back, Tiago Djaló, whose contract expires in the summer. This twist follows widespread expectations of the 23-year-old joining Inter on a free transfer, becoming Marotta’s latest low-cost acquisition for a team filled with such standout players. The pivotal factor propelling Juventus ahead in the race for Djaló seems to be their intent to secure him this month rather than waiting for a free transfer in the summer. Reports indicate Juventus has already tabled an offer of €1.5 million plus bonuses, though some sources, like Fabrizio Romano, suggest the initial fee could be closer to €3 million.

Considering Juventus’ current financial situation, they may need to make a minor sale to finance an immediate move for Djaló. Sky Italia’s Gianluca Di Marzio suggests this might involve selling midfielder Filippo Ranocchia to Serie B side Palermo.

However, the snag in Juventus’ pursuit (and Inter’s) of Djaló is his lack of playtime this season due to a knee injury sustained in March of the previous season. His status for this season remains uncertain despite the ten-month recovery period.

Earlier reports hinted at Djaló favoring a move to Inter, but Juventus’ sudden entry into the picture has shifted the dynamics. Inter’s lead position seems compromised, and further negotiations between Cristiano Giuntoli and Lille are anticipated next week, as per reports.

According to Italian transfer reporter Nicolo Schira, Juventus is preparing a contract for Djaló extending through 2028. Djaló, previously part of AC Milan’s youth setup, joined Lille thereafter.

Examining Juventus’ squad dynamics, the need for someone like Djaló becomes evident. With Dean Huijsen loaned to Roma for the rest of the 2023-24 season and Alex Sandro struggling with persistent injuries, bolstering the squad becomes imperative for Max Allegri. Of course, the caveat lies in Djaló’s recovery, but signing him now might allow Juventus to carefully manage his return to the field at their own pace.

Tiago Djaló

This season he played in total 25 times for 2022 minutes for Coupe de France.

Tiago Djaló scored 2 goals for LOSC Lille. He procured no assists. He received 6 yellow cards and no red cards.

His team is currently 5th in Coupe de France. In the last match LOSC Lille lost 2-1 against Strasbourg.

LOSC Lille performance and stats

LOSC Lille will play the next match in Coupe de France against Golden Lion on Saturday 6th of January in Villeneuve d’Ascq. The prediction is LOSC Lille winning the match.​

Juventus performance and stats

Juventus is currently 2nd in the Serie A with 43 points.

In the last 18 games, it has won 13 times, drawn 4 times, and lost once. In its last match, Juventus won 1-0 against Roma.​​

It has a positive goal difference after scoring 27 goals and conceding 11.​

Juventus will play the next match in Serie A against Salernitana on Sunday 7th of January in Salerno. The prediction is Juventus winning the match.​