Juventus are planning on overhauling the entire tactical system after Max Allegris’ failed schematic experiments, including the infuriatingly defensive 3-5-2 setup that led the Bianconeri to nowhere.
Thiago Motta impressed in 2023/24 for Bologna as one of the best young managers in world football, and he brings excitement to a Juventus side that desperately needed an attacking refresh.
As Juve continue to overhaul the midfield with Teun Koopmeiners now in view and prepare for more star power in the attack, they do have to think about adding fullbacks if they want to switch to a back four under Motta.
Potential left back Riccardo Calafiori now seems to be on the verge of joining Arsenal, but it looks like Juventus are currently more preoccupied with the other side of the formation.
According to Nicolo Schira, Juventus would like to sign Manchester City-owned right back Yan Couto, who spent the 2023/24 season on loan at Girona.
Couto helped Girona contend for the LaLiga title for about half of the season, shining even against the mighty Real Madrid, whom he openly said he would be interested in joining in the future.
Schira reports that Juventus have engaged in positive initial conversations with the agents representing the 22-year-old, who may be difficult to pry from perennial Premier League title contenders Man City.
Couto is more of an attacking right back and a right midfielder, so if Juventus do stick with a three-man defense under Motta, he could flourish as a right-sided midfielder in a four or five-man midfield system.
A much better player than Weston McKennie, Filip Kostic, Samuel Iling-Junior, Timothy Weah, or any of the other mediocre players Juve have utilized in these wide roles, Couto was one of the best progressors in LaLiga last season.
Manchester City may not have use for Couto in the XI this season, but the young Brazilian is good enough to start. Therefore, another loan could make sense, and a cash-conscious Juve could benefit from a one-year rental.
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