Juventus pivot to Freiburg’s Atubolu as Alisson retention talks stall
The Bianconeri are negotiating a cost-effective deal with Liverpool to keep Alisson Becker, but agents have formally offered Noah Atubolu as a contingency plan amid growing uncertainty over the squad’s goalkeeper position.
Juventus have been approached by the agents of Freiburg goalkeeper Noah Atubolu, who is being positioned as a potential replacement for Alisson Becker. The Italian club is currently engaged in negotiations with Liverpool to secure a cost-effective agreement to retain the Brazilian international, even as concerns mount regarding their qualification for the UEFA Champions League. However, should those talks collapse, the 23-year-old German international has emerged as a primary target for the Turin-based side.
Atubolu has established himself as a standout performer in the Bundesliga, recording 12 clean sheets across 49 appearances and allowing 67 goals. His recent form includes setting a club record during the 2024/25 season by going 609 minutes without conceding a goal, as well as achieving a Bundesliga record with five consecutive penalty saves. These statistics have drawn attention from several top European clubs, including Napoli, Inter Milan, and Bayern Munich.
Interest from other major suitors appears to be waning or resolved. Bayern Munich recently re-signed Manuel Neuer, effectively reducing their pursuit of Atubolu, while Inter Milan seem to have opted to promote Josep Martinez rather than enter a bidding war for the Freiburg star. Atubolu had previously been linked with Milan during the previous summer when Mike Maignan’s future was in doubt, but the current landscape suggests Juventus remains the most active party in seeking a new goalkeeper.
The urgency for Juventus stems from internal competition and recent performances. Current first-choice goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio, who was previously named Serie A’s top goalkeeper while at Monza, lost his starting position in a recent match against Fiorentina. This shift has raised questions about his long-term standing at the club and potentially opened the door for a new signing, although the club may also look toward a different veteran if the Alisson deal fails.
Atubolu, who progressed through the Freiburg youth academy and has started for the past three campaigns, is also set to feature in the upcoming UEFA Europa League final. With 22 caps for Germany U-21, he represents a high-ceiling option for a club seeking to solidify its defensive structure. The outcome of the negotiations with Liverpool will likely dictate whether Juventus proceeds with the Brazilian or pivots to the rising German talent.
