Juventus' €25m price tag forces focus on John Stones

Juventus have put forward a firm proposal to sign free‑agent centre‑back John Stones, while also confronting a €25 million price tag for Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi. The Italian giants are weighing the two options as they aim to reinforce a back line that may lose Gleison Bremer to Galatasaray.

Juventus are actively searching for a new centre‑back, a need that has intensified after Gleison Bremer could depart for Galatasaray. Bremer’s possible exit would leave a significant defensive void in Juventus’ lineup.

The club’s transfer calculations now hinge on finding a replacement who can plug the defensive gap. The €25 million asking price for Jhon Lucumi has become a benchmark for Juventus’ current defensive recruitment, highlighting the difficulty of securing a new centre‑back.

Despite the price pressure, Juventus are ready to make a concrete offer for a centre‑back, signalling willingness to meet market demands if the right player emerges. Their readiness underscores the urgency of reinforcing the back line.

Italian dominance in Bologna puts pressure on the Red Devils' chances

Juventus have made contact with John Stones after his Manchester City contract ran down, and a firm proposal is reportedly on the table. The 32‑year‑old, a regular in the England side that secured third place at the 2026 World Cup, remains without a club following his departure from Manchester City.

Sky Sport Italia transfer pundit Gianluca Di Marzio says Juventus are in talks with Stones and his entourage to discuss personal terms, confirming the seriousness of the approach. Di’s comment adds credibility to the claim that genuine negotiations are underway.

Inter, Napoli, Chelsea, Arsenal and Bayern Munich have also been mentioned in connection with Stones, but none have shown a strong pursuit. Those reports suggest Juventus’ proposal is the most genuine among interested parties.

Overcoming the €25 million hurdle for Lucumi will be crucial for Juventus’ defensive rebuilding plan and illustrates broader market challenges for top clubs seeking reinforcements. Securing Stones would give the former Manchester City defender a new home and provide Juventus with the experience needed to fill the potential Bremer vacancy.