One of Juventus’ main priorities for the January transfer window is to strengthen the right flank — an area that could become an urgent concern if João Mario leaves the club.
With the Bianconeri operating under tight financial constraints and unable to splash out during the winter window, IlBianconero report that sporting director Damien Comolli and his staff are carefully evaluating potential options to bolster Massimiliano Allegri’s squad.
In recent weeks, Weston McKennie has been filling in effectively down the right, delivering solid performances in a makeshift role. João Mario, meanwhile, has fallen completely out of favour and may exit Turin after just six months. To prepare for that scenario, Juventus have identified three possible recruits.
The Palestra dream
At the top of Comolli’s list is Marco Palestra, the 19-year-old winger owned by Atalanta but currently enjoying an impressive loan spell at Cagliari. Palestra has caught the eye with his pace, maturity and attacking output, quickly establishing himself as one of Serie A’s emerging talents.
Juventus showed interest in the youngster during the summer, but prising him away midway through the season would require a substantial offer. Atalanta are reluctant to sell, especially given the growing competition from Inter and several Premier League clubs.
Malo Gusto as Plan B
An alternative under consideration is Chelsea’s Malo Gusto. The Frenchman, capable of operating as a full-back or wing-back, offers excellent technical ability and forward thrust — attributes well suited to Allegri’s system.
Gusto has seen his playing time increase recently under Enzo Maresca, but Juventus remain attentive to any opportunity that might arise should his situation change in London.
Mawissa, the versatile option
The third name on Comolli’s shortlist is Christian Mawissa of AS Monaco, a player he knows well from their time together at Toulouse.
The 20-year-old primarily plays as a centre-back but is equally comfortable covering wider defensive roles. Despite his potential, Mawissa has struggled for minutes this season, making him a realistic target for a winter move. Juventus could see him as a flexible addition to strengthen depth across the defensive line.
While much will depend on outgoing transfers and budget constraints, it’s clear that Juventus are exploring multiple avenues to reinforce their right flank ahead of a crucial second half of the season.
