Crystal Palace could be set to make their first move of the January transfer window, with João Mário emerging as a prime candidate after Juventus effectively showed him the exit door.
The Portuguese winger’s future in Turin is hanging by a thread, with Italian reports making it clear that he is no longer part of Juventus’ immediate plans. Under Luciano Spalletti, the Serie A giants are prioritising players who can deliver an instant impact, leaving little room for patience with younger squad members.
Despite João Mário belonging to the 2006 generation and being viewed as a player with long-term potential, Spalletti is unwilling to wait. As a result, the winger has been frozen out of the project, with Juventus now openly treating him as expendable while protecting other members of the squad.
This stance has opened the door for a January exit, and Crystal Palace are closely monitoring developments. Unlike several clubs in Spain and Portugal, who are exploring loan deals that could include an option to buy, Palace are assessing the possibility of a permanent transfer.
That approach places the Eagles in a strong position. Juventus are keen to trim their squad and create space for reinforcements, and Palace’s willingness to discuss a full move aligns with the Italian club’s objectives.
Crucially, there is growing belief that João Mário is open to the switch. With Juventus pushing him towards the exit and Palace offering a clearer pathway to first-team football, an agreement on personal terms would not be expected to be an obstacle.
From Palace’s perspective, the move would make sense as they look to strengthen their wide options early in the window. Acting decisively could allow Oliver Glasner’s side to secure a deal before competition intensifies elsewhere.
With Juventus ready to move the player on and Crystal Palace positioning themselves as a serious destination, João Mário could well become the Eagles’ first January signing, setting the tone for an active transfer window at Selhurst Park.