Marseille midfielder emerges as Juventus' top January transfer target

Italian giants Juventus have made Marseille midfielder Pierre-Emile Højbjerg their top transfer target for the upcoming January window, according to reports in Gazzetta dello Sport.

Bianconeri head coach Luciano Spalletti sees the Danish international as the natural leader his squad currently lacks and is even considering offering him the captain's armband. According to the Italian publication, the ongoing crisis at Marseille could facilitate a mid-season deal. Juventus were previously linked with Leon Goretzka, who moved to Aston Villa, and Franck Kessié, who eventually joined Atalanta, in the summer. Although the Denmark captain is under contract with OM until 2028, the French club's current turmoil could force them to cash in on one of their key performers.

Meanwhile, Højbjerg was forced off just ten minutes into Denmark's Nations League clash with Wales after clutching his left hamstring. The severity of the injury remains unknown, and he is set to undergo comprehensive medical tests upon returning to his club.

Marseille currently sit second from bottom in Ligue 1. The French side are also scheduled to face Levski Sofia in the Europa League at the Stade Vélodrome on November 26.