Juventus Transfer Bid Targets Feyenoord’s Hancko

Juventus transfer ambitions are back in the spotlight as the Turin giants renew their chase for Feyenoord’s commanding centre-back David Hancko, hoping to outmaneuver Saudi side Al-Nassr before the January window opens.

Juventus transfer strategy and defensive needs

The latest Juventus transfer discussions inside Continassa revolve around fortifying a back line that has looked stretched whenever either Danilo or Alex Sandro is missing. With Champions League qualification a non-negotiable for 2024-25, sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli is prioritising a left-footed defender who can step straight into Massimiliano Allegri’s three-man unit. Hancko’s ability to operate as a centre-back, full-back or even as a deep playmaker ticks every tactical box. Club sources indicate that a formal offer in the €25-30 million range is being prepared, a figure deemed acceptable by Feyenoord in light of the Slovakian’s contract running to 2028.

Who is David Hancko?

Still only 26, Hancko has been ever-present for Arne Slot’s side, leading Feyenoord to last season’s Eredivisie crown with his blend of aerial dominance and crisp distribution. The Slovakian international began his adventure in Italy with Fiorentina in 2018, so a new Juventus transfer would not be his first taste of Serie A. His 1.88-metre frame belies nimble footwork that allows him to step out of defence and launch counter-attacks—an attribute Allegri desperately craves.

Serie A experience gives Hancko an edge

Unlike many foreign recruits, Hancko would not require a lengthy bedding-in period. He already speaks Italian and understands the tactical nuances of Calcio. Those in the Juventus transfer committee believe that familiarity could save precious weeks during a hectic winter schedule featuring Coppa Italia, league and potentially European matches if the club’s legal battles are resolved in time.

Al-Nassr’s Saudi Pro League lure

Standing in Juve’s path is an Al-Nassr outfit flush with Public Investment Fund backing. The Riyadh club have offered Hancko a salary in the region of €9 million net—triple his current wage. While Juventus transfer chiefs cannot reach those figures, they are banking on the defender’s desire to compete at the highest European level and remain in the spotlight of UEFA competitions. Sources close to the player suggest that family considerations and competitive ambition still weigh heavier than a Saudi payday.

Financial implications of the Juventus transfer pursuit

The Bianconeri must balance the books after two loss-making seasons. A mooted loan departure for Matías Soulé or Samuel Iling-Junior could free both salary space and transfer liquidity. Crucially, Fiorentina negotiated a 15% sell-on clause when they sold Hancko to Sparta Prague in 2021, meaning Feyenoord are keen to close any deal at a premium. Juventus transfer negotiators are discussing performance-related bonuses to bridge the valuation gap without breaching budget constraints.

Tactical fit under Allegri

In Allegri’s preferred 3-5-2, Hancko would slot into the left-centre role, allowing Danilo to marshal the right and Bremer to anchor centrally. His progressive passing range could unlock midfield runners such as Adrien Rabiot and Weston McKennie, while his recovery pace offers insurance against high defensive lines. The Juventus transfer target also boasts an 89% pass completion rate in the Eredivisie, mirroring the accuracy Allegri demands.

What happens next?

Juventus transfer timelines are tight. Giuntoli aims to finalise personal terms with Hancko’s agent Juraj Vengloš before Christmas to stave off Al-Nassr’s escalating salary overtures. Should negotiations drag into January, the Saudis are expected to return with an even richer package. Feyenoord, meanwhile, have signalled they will not block a move if the player expresses a desire to leave and the offer aligns with market value.

Opinion: Signing Hancko would be a statement that Juventus are done patching holes and are ready to build a defence for the next five years. Outbidding Al-Nassr financially may be impossible, but matching Feyenoord’s valuation and offering top-level football could be enough. If Giuntoli seals this Juventus transfer swiftly, the Bianconeri may finally possess the left-sided pillar their back line has lacked since Giorgio Chiellini’s departure.