Danilo's potential departure from Juventus appears increasingly likely as the club captain has been dropped from the squad for the Italian Super Cup earlier this week. According to reports, Juventus has informed Napoli of the costs associated with securing the Brazilian defender's services this January. This shift marks what many perceive as the inevitable end of Danilo's time with the Bianconeri, particularly highlighted by his shaky performances throughout October, where missteps against teams like Stuttgart, Inter, and Parma have left Juventus searching for younger alternatives.
It’s been clear since the outset of the season, as revealed by various media outlets, including Juvefc.com, the experienced defender is no longer seen as the top choice by head coach Thiago Motta. Despite the visible need for defensive reinforcement, Juventus has opted to initiate Danilo’s exit, rather than allowing his contract to simply run down until its expiration this June.
Napoli has been keeping tabs on Danilo, viewing him as an opportunity to strengthen their squad, particularly with coach Antonio Conte reportedly interested. Recent statements from Italian journalist Nicolo Schira reveal Juventus’s insistence on securing between 2 and 3 million euros for Danilo, resisting the Brazilian's wishes for immediate release and fulfilling his desire for freedom from his contract.
Negotiations may not be straightforward. Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has traditionally placed obstacles for Juventus during transfer talks. This reciprocal animosity could motivate Juventus to hold firm for their price, particularly after Napoli blocked Juventus from acquiring Giacomo Raspadori previously.
Nonetheless, Giovanni Manna, Napoli's sporting director, is expected to navigate these waters carefully, leveraging past connections to find common ground with Juventus. There are indications from Schira's reporting detailing Napoli's strategy to reach a compromise with Juventus, which may involve conditional bonuses tied to specific performance objectives, rather than the upfront transfer fee.
Besides Danilo's future, Juventus is already on the lookout for his replacement. Rumors suggest they are targeting Tyrell Malacia from Manchester United, who has not had many opportunities this season and is considered to be seeking more playtime. Juventus is expected to propose a short-term loan deal, with options for longer commitments depending on his performances.
While Danilo’s exit is on the horizon, Juventus is trying to balance their squad depth strategically, particularly after struggling with numerous draws this season. Currently holding the fifth spot with 32 points, they sit 12 points behind league leaders Napoli. The recent lack of wins has prompted management to reconsider their approach, not only within defensive positions but also seeking enhancements to their offense.
Juventus's future rests on not just managing Danilo's departure but on optimizing the squad as they seek to break free from the chains of mediocrity seen this season. All eyes will be on January, where the fate of both Danilo and Juventus’s ambitions may very well transpire, illustrating the high stakes of football transfers and team performance decisions.