Juventus keen on Brentford & Atalanta defenders Kayode & Scalvini

Juventus are stepping up their interest in Michael Kayode and Giorgio Scalvini as they look to strengthen their defensive options ahead of next season, with both Italian internationals identified as priority targets regardless of whether the club secures Champions League football.

According to Tuttosport, via CalcioMercato, the two profiles have risen sharply up Juventus’s shortlist in recent days. Kayode is currently at Brentford but is familiar with Serie A having previously come through Fiorentina’s academy, while Scalvini is an established presence in Atalanta’s backline and one of the most highly regarded young defenders in Italian football.

Scalvini represents the more expensive of the two targets, with Atalanta understood to value the defender at between €35 and €40 million. La Dea have indicated they are open to listening to offers at that level, and Juventus are prepared to make a concrete approach.

Spalletti worked with Scalvini during his tenure as Italy national team coach and is a known admirer of his versatility, the defender is equally comfortable in a back three or back four, and his composure in possession.

Kayode would cost in the region of €30 million according to reports, a slightly lower outlay that still represents a significant investment for a club whose summer budget remains dependent on their final league position. Both players would satisfy UEFA’s homegrown regulations for Champions League squad registration, an increasingly important consideration for the Bianconeri’s planning.

Juventus head into their final two matches against Fiorentina and Torino in a comfortable place, but cannot afford to slip up with Milan, Roma and Como all within striking distance.