Juventus Target Nigeria’s Raphael Onyedika as Douglas Luiz replacement

Juventus are eyeing Nigerian midfielder Raphael Onyedika as a potential replacement for Douglas Luiz, with significant changes expected in their midfield ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, Sport360NG reports.

Luiz appears to be on his way out of Turin just a year after arriving from Aston Villa in a $60 million deal. Despite the high expectations, the Brazilian struggled to make an impact, featuring in only 19 matches and starting just three. Under manager Igor Tudor, he saw limited action, clocking just 37 minutes across the final nine Serie A games of the season.

With Manuel Locatelli now preferred in the holding role, Juventus are reportedly open to offloading Luiz if a suitable offer is made. Though he is contracted until 2029, the club is said to have set a valuation of around $40 million. Everton are among the clubs monitoring Luiz’s situation, according to FootItalia.

In preparation for Luiz’s possible departure, Juventus have stepped up their interest in Onyedika, who plays for Belgian Pro League side Club Brugge. The 24-year-old has become a standout performer since his move to Belgium and is attracting attention from several European clubs, including AC Milan and Atalanta.

Reports indicate Juventus scouts recently watched Onyedika in action, viewing him as a viable and cost-effective reinforcement in midfield. The Italian giants believe they may have an advantage in negotiations due to their close ties with his representatives, CAA Stellar, the same agency that handles Juventus players Arkadiusz Milik and new signing Pierre Kalulu.

While Everton were previously linked with Onyedika, their interest has now shifted toward Luiz, giving Juventus a clearer path to pursue the Nigerian international. With only a year remaining on his contract, Onyedika is expected to be available for around $35 million. Club Brugge are reportedly open to a sale this summer to avoid losing him on a free transfer next year.

Sources in Belgium suggest that Onyedika is eager for a move to a top-tier club, with FootItalia noting that he is “keen to test himself at an elite club.”

Juventus are now preparing to ramp up talks with Club Brugge as Luiz edges closer to the exit door. The Serie A club, mindful of financial constraints, see Onyedika as a smart investment, offering both immediate impact and long-term potential in their evolving midfield setup.