Juventus targeted Zirkzee and Mateta in the Premier League

Originally posted on Football Italia | By Susy Campanale | Last updated Jan 17, 2026 1:18 PM ET

Juventus are looking to the Premier League for a new striker, as while Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta is first choice, Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee is an alternative.

The Bianconeri are seeking reinforcements in attack after the serious Dusan Vlahovic injury, also aware his contract will expire at the end of this season too.

Zirkzee and Mateta attracting Juventus interest

CRAWLEY, ENGLAND – JULY 25: Jean-Phillipe Mateta of Crystal Palace looks on during the pre-season friendly match between Crawley Town and Crystal Palace at Broadfield Stadium on July 25, 2025 in Crawley, England. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)

Mateta has for a while been their primary concern, and Crystal Palace are prepared to sell in January, but only if they receive their asking price.

There are fundamental differences in Italy and England on what that price will be, as Sky Sport Italia consider it to be €35m, while in the British media it’s closer to €50m.

As those negotiations continue, also involving the Palace striker’s agents, Juventus are glancing over at another candidate too.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 04: Joshua Zirkzee of Manchester United during the Premier League match between Manchester United and West Ham United at Old Trafford on December 04, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

According to Sky Sport Italia, the Bianconeri have asked Manchester United for the availability of Zirkzee.

The former Bologna and Parma centre-forward was not even on the bench for today’s Premier League derby victory over Gianluigi Donnarumma’s Manchester City.

He had been the target for Roma, who have already secured Donyell Malen and Robinio Vaz instead.

Fenerbahce striker Youssef En-Nesyri has also been mentioned, although would seem to be more an option for Napoli than Juventus.

This article first appeared on Football Italia and was syndicated with permission.

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