Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa have shown interest in Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu. The 25-year-old Frenchman has played a key role for the Italian club this season, and clubs in England see him as a fit for their backlines. Talks of a €30 million move are in the air, though most expect any deal to wait until summer.
Background
Pierre Kalulu first made his mark at AC Milan, where he spent four seasons in Serie A. He played regularly and helped the team compete at the top of the league. Last summer, he moved to Juventus on loan from Milan, and that deal turned permanent in July after a good run of games.
At Juventus, Kalulu has settled in fast. He has appeared in every match available this season, logging full minutes each time. His performances have stood out, with one goal and four assists to his name already. The club sits high in the Serie A table, fourth place with 39 points from 20 games, and Kalulu has been part of that solid defense.
France has called him up too. He has three caps for the senior national team, showing his quality on a bigger stage. Born in France, he grew up playing youth football there before heading to Italy. Now, at 25, he is at a point in his career where a step to the Premier League makes sense for more exposure and better pay.
Juventus paid a fee to make his move permanent, but they know Premier League money can change things. The club would take around €30 million, which equals about £26 million. That price gives them a profit on their investment, and they would use it to build the squad further.
Key Details
The interest from England started with reports in Italy. Manchester United, Tottenham and Aston Villa all like what they see. United have a deep group of centre-backs already, with players like Leny Yoro, Harry Maguire, Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martinez and Ayden Heaven. Still, they want more options, especially with an interim manager in place.
Michael Carrick took over as caretaker boss at United this week. His team beat Manchester City 2-0 on Saturday, a big win that has everyone talking. The club spent big last summer, over €250 million on five players, but they hold off on more buys now. A new permanent manager might come in summer, so they plan targets like Kalulu for then.
Tottenham need defensive cover too. Their backline has had ups and downs, and Kalulu's ability to play out from the back fits modern football. Aston Villa, under Unai Emery, push for Europe again. They see Kalulu as a leader who can switch up their defense. He has played 32 times for Juventus this season, adding five goal contributions overall.
Kalulu's Season Stats
- Appearances: 32 for Juventus
- Goals: 1
- Assists: 4
- Full minutes in every available game
- Three France caps
A January move could happen, but summer looks more likely. Kalulu has three-and-a-half years left on his Juventus deal, so no rush from the sellers. Premier League clubs watch his form closely, ready to act if he keeps playing well.
"Kalulu is a true leader on the pitch, his performances have caught eyes in England." – Paolo Aghemo, Italian journalist
What This Means
For Juventus, selling Kalulu at €30 million boosts their budget. They sit in contention for Champions League spots, and the cash helps sign new players. It also opens space in the squad for youth or other targets.
Manchester United gain depth if they land him. Their defense is strong but injury-prone at times. Carrick's win over City shows promise, but long-term planning needs players like Kalulu who can start right away. A summer deal fits their wait for a full-time boss.
Tottenham get a ball-playing defender who suits Ange Postecoglou's style. Villa, chasing top spots, add experience from Serie A. All three clubs eye summer windows to refresh squads after heavy spending or mixed results.
Kalulu himself stands to gain from the Premier League. Higher wages, bigger crowds and top competition await. His move from Milan to Juventus worked out, so England could be next. Clubs monitor his every game now, waiting for the right moment to bid.
The transfer window stays open, but eyes turn to summer. United also look at midfielders like Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton. Tottenham and Villa have their own lists. Kalulu tops the defender watchlist for these teams.
Juventus face worry over losing him. Premier League pull is strong, and his form draws bids. A €30 million offer tempts them, especially with capital gains. The player enjoys his time in Turin but eyes abroad.
This chase highlights Premier League power. Serie A stars like Kalulu head to England for the challenge. United, Tottenham and Villa position early, building for next season's fights in league and cups.
Other rumors swirl too. Liverpool eye Inter's Alessandro Bastoni after missing Marc Guéhi. Chelsea want Rennes' Jérémy Jacquet for €50 million. Deals shape up across Europe, but Kalulu's story grabs attention now.
