Manchester United and Liverpool have both been forced to reconsider their January defensive plans after Juventus made clear they will not entertain offers for Pierre Kalulu mid-season.
The 26-year-old France international has established himself as a key figure under Luciano Spalletti in Turin, and Premier League interest in the versatile defender continues to grow. United are understood to be particularly keen, while Liverpool are also closely monitoring the situation.
Juventus dig in their heels
According to the Manchester Evening News, Juventus have no intention of selling Kalulu during the January transfer window despite interest from the two English giants. That stance represents a significant setback, especially for United, who are actively assessing options to strengthen their defence.
Kalulu’s appeal lies in his versatility. The former AC Milan man can operate comfortably as a centre-back or right-back, giving him particular value to managers seeking tactical flexibility rather than a one-position specialist.
GOAL has reported that United have already sent scouts to Italy to watch him, with Liverpool and Tottenham also among his Premier League admirers. Juventus valued him at around €50 million during the summer, and that figure is unlikely to drop if clubs return in January — if anything, it may rise.
Why United need him more
From a Manchester United perspective, Kalulu makes clear sense. Michael Carrick’s side have shown defensive vulnerability early this season, and a mobile, experienced defender capable of covering multiple positions would address more than one issue at once.
Liverpool’s interest is understandable, but their need appears less urgent depending on how their current defensive options develop over the coming months.
The biggest obstacle remains Juventus’ position. Kalulu is one of Spalletti’s trusted starters, and selling an important first-team player in January would make little sporting sense unless an exceptional offer arrived. That leaves United and Liverpool facing a waiting game. A fee in the region of €50m already represents a major outlay, and Juventus may demand even more if pressed halfway through the campaign.
Both clubs may now have to explore alternative targets or simply bide their time until the summer.
