Juventus and Roma are both interested in bringing Marseille defender Leonardo Balerdi to Serie A.
The center-back is drawing heavy interest from both Serie A giants, though a high price tag and strong resistance from the Ligue 1 side could stall any immediate deal.
Balerdi Juventus Transfer
According to Sky Sport Italia, Juventus recently made formal contact with Marseille to explore the possibility of signing Leonardo Balerdi. However, the response was swift and firm: Marseille and Roberto De Zerbi have no intention of parting ways with the 26-year-old Argentine defender this summer.
The player is currently under contract until June 2028, and with Marseille returning to the Champions League, the club sees Balerdi as essential to their campaign. They have reportedly set a steep €40 million price tag in an attempt to ward off any serious interest.
Why Igor Tudor Wants Balerdi
A major driving force behind Juventus’ interest is head coach Igor Tudor, who worked with Balerdi during his time at Marseille. The Croatian manager is pushing hard for a reunion and is convinced that Balerdi’s defensive quality and familiarity with his tactical demands make him an ideal addition.
Tudor’s influence has already reshaped the club’s direction. Speaking earlier this week, Juventus GM Damien Comolli confirmed that Tudor will stay beyond the Club World Cup and lead the squad into the 2025-26 season.
With Comolli planning to restructure the club’s technical staff and transfer strategy, a move for Balerdi fits the profile of signing the club is in the market for.
The Old Lady are actively seeking to bolster their back line, particularly with Gleison Bremer out with a knee injury. While the club has depth options in defense, they view Balerdi as a natural fit to complement or rotate with their current starters.
At Marseille, Balerdi has made over 160 appearances and has even worn the captain’s armband on occasion. His experience, coupled with his comfort in playing under high tactical demands, makes him a strong candidate for Juventus’ evolving back four.
Balerdi Roma Transfer
While Juventus leads the chase, Roma has quietly re-entered the picture. The Giallorossi were linked with Balerdi during the January transfer window, but negotiations broke down over Marseille’s valuation.
According to Calciomercato.it, Roma remain interested and view the defender as a suitable fit for Gian Piero Gasperini’s system, who is expected to take charge in the coming weeks.
However, with Juventus now involved and Marseille demanding top dollar, Roma may again find themselves priced out.
Will Balerdi Leave Marseille?
Although Marseille is standing firm, there are signs the player might be open to a new challenge. Sources close to the situation suggest that Balerdi would welcome a move to Serie A, particularly with the chance to reunite with Tudor or feature in a new project like Roma’s under Gasperini.
That said, unless Marseille softens their stance — or the buying clubs meet the full asking price — a summer move remains unlikely.
As always, fans watching the transfer market unfold might consider the safest online betting sites to track odds and market shifts related to player moves, club strategies, and Serie A title races.
