Juventus have identified Nigerian international Raphael Onyedika as a potential replacement for Douglas Luiz, amid plans to restructure their midfield ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Luiz, who joined the Italian giants from Aston Villa in a high-profile $60 million move last summer, has struggled to make an impact in Turin. The Brazilian made only 19 appearances in all competitions, starting just three matches, and saw limited action under manager Igor Tudor, featuring for only 37 minutes in the club’s final nine league games.
With Manuel Locatelli now favored in the holding midfield role, Juventus are reportedly open to selling Luiz despite his contract running until 2029, with a revised valuation of approximately $40 million. Everton have reportedly expressed interest in the player.
In preparation for Luiz’s likely exit, Juventus are advancing their pursuit of Raphael Onyedika, currently at Belgian club Club Brugge. According to reports from FootItalia, Juventus scouts were sent to observe the 23-year-old Nigerian, who has been a regular for Brugge since arriving three seasons ago.
The Italian side believes its ongoing relationship with Onyedika’s representatives, CAA Stellar—who also manage Arkadiusz Milik and new signing Pierre Kalulu—may give them a competitive advantage in the deal.
While Everton were previously linked to Onyedika earlier in the transfer window, their focus has now shifted to Luiz, potentially clearing the way for Juventus to finalize a move for the Nigerian. Onyedika has just one year left on his current contract and is reportedly available for around $35 million.
Sources in Belgium suggest that Club Brugge are open to selling the player now rather than risk losing him for free next summer. Onyedika is said to be eager for a move to a top European club.
Juventus are expected to intensify negotiations with Club Brugge in the coming days, aiming to secure a cost-effective yet high-quality addition to their midfield as part of a broader squad overhaul.
