Juventus targets Uruguayan defender as backup plan for Balerdi

Juventus are keeping close tabs on Toluca’s Uruguayan defender Federico Pereira as a potential alternative to Leonardo Balerdi, with the club facing challenges in their pursuit of the Olympique Marseille captain.

Manager Igor Tudor has made Balerdi his top defensive target, having worked with the Argentine during his time at Marseille.

The 26-year-old fits Tudor’s system perfectly, especially following the departure of Renato Veiga, who had been a key part of the coach’s early plans.

However, despite Juventus’ interest, the move for Balerdi is proving complicated, Marseille are reluctant to let their captain leave, especially after qualifying for the UEFA Champions League under Roberto De Zerbi. The French champions are eager to keep their defensive leader at the Stade Vélodrome.

With Balerdi’s transfer looking increasingly difficult, Juventus are exploring other options—one of whom is Federico Pereira.

Pereira is a 25-year-old Uruguayan centre-back currently playing for Mexican side Toluca. He began his career with Liverpool FC Montevideo before moving to Toluca in January 2024 in a deal worth €6.3 million.

He also featured prominently for Pachuca in the FIFA Club World Cup, starting in matches against Al-Hilal, Real Madrid, and RB Leipzig.

Pereira primarily plays as a central defender but is also capable of filling in at right-back. His contract with Toluca runs until 2028, and Transfermarkt currently values him at €5.5 million.

An added bonus for Juventus is that Pereira holds an Italian passport. With the club planning to use their first non-EU spot on Canadian forward Jonathan David, Pereira’s dual nationality would allow them to sign him without using another non-EU slot.

Juventus will continue to monitor both Balerdi and Pereira closely. While the Argentine remains the priority, the Bianconeri are unlikely to wait too long if Marseille remain firm. Pereira could soon become more than just a backup plan.