Bianconeri Book Parma Striker as Alternative
Juventus have reportedly moved to secure Parma forward Mateo Pellegrino as talks with Randal Kolo Muani hit an impasse, according to Il Corriere dello Sport via Football Italia. The Serie A giants have been in the market for a new striker throughout the summer but appear to be shifting their sights to a more attainable target after negotiations for the French international stalled.
Why the Deal for Kolo Muani Collapsed
Juventus had identified Kolo Muani as a marquee signing to bolster their attack, but financial demands and competition from other clubs have complicated the pursuit. The 27-year-old’s current club are holding firm on their valuation, while the player’s wage expectations are understood to be beyond the Bianconeri’s current budget. With the new season fast approaching, sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli has opted to explore alternatives rather than wait indefinitely.
“Juventus cannot afford to be held hostage by one negotiation. The plan was always to have multiple options, and Pellegrino has been on their radar for months,” a source close to the club told Il Corriere dello Sport.
Who Is Mateo Pellegrino?
Pellegrino, 24, has emerged as one of the most promising Italian forwards outside the traditional top clubs. After starting his career in the youth ranks of Genoa, he moved to Parma in 2024 and enjoyed a breakout campaign last season, scoring 13 goals and providing five assists in Serie A. His pace, off-the-ball movement, and ability to play across the front line make him a versatile option for Thiago Motta’s system.
The forward still has two years left on his contract at the Stadio Ennio Tardini, but Parma are believed to be open to a deal worth around €25–30 million. Juventus see him as a lower-cost, high-upside alternative who can develop alongside the club’s core of young talent.
What This Means for Juventus’ Transfer Strategy
Securing Pellegrino would not necessarily rule out a late move for Kolo Muani, but it signals a pragmatic shift in approach. The Bianconeri have already invested heavily in other areas and must comply with financial fair play regulations. By “booking” the Parma man—a term used by Il Corriere dello Sport to indicate an agreement in principle—they have safeguarded themselves against missing out on all targets.
If talks with Kolo Muani fail to reignite, Pellegrino could be the main addition to the attack. In either case, Juventus are determined to avoid a repeat of last summer’s drawn-out sagas that left them scrambling at the deadline.
Key Takeaways
- Juventus have reached a preliminary agreement for Parma’s Mateo Pellegrino as a backup to Randal Kolo Muani.
- Negotiations for Kolo Muani have stalled due to high transfer fee and wage demands.
- Pellegrino, 24, scored 13 goals in Serie A last season and fits the profile of an affordable, developing forward.
- The deal does not completely close the door on Kolo Muani but provides insurance for Juventus.
Quick Facts
Reported Target: Mateo Pellegrino (Parma), 24 years old
2025–26 Goals: 13 in Serie A
Estimated Transfer Fee: €25–30 million
Stalled Negotiation: Randal Kolo Muani (27, current club)
Source: Il Corriere dello Sport via Football Italia