Crystal Palace ready for permanent João Mário move as Juventus exit nears

Crystal Palace remain attentive to developments surrounding João Mário at Juventus, with fresh reports from Italy suggesting the winger is now “closer to the door” in Turin.

According to Tuttosport, Juventus are increasingly open to moving the Portuguese wide player on as they reshape the squad under new head coach Luciano Spalletti. Palace, notably, are among the few clubs willing to explore a permanent transfer, rather than a short-term loan.

Spalletti’s priorities are said to be firmly short-term, with an emphasis on players who can deliver immediate impact. Despite João Mário’s age profile and long-term potential, he has failed to break into the new manager’s plans.

Juventus now view the winger as expendable, while other squad members are considered untouchable. Reducing numbers and freeing space for reinforcements has become a clear objective, accelerating discussions around João Mário’s future.

That context explains why the 2006-born attacker has yet to feature prominently this season and why multiple exit routes are now being explored.

The situation has evolved further with interest broadening beyond Italy. Clubs in Spain and Portugal are monitoring João Mário, with loan deals — often including options to buy — emerging as realistic possibilities.

Crystal Palace’s approach, however, differs significantly. The Premier League side are understood to be assessing a definitive transfer, placing them in a stronger negotiating position should Juventus prioritise a clean exit.

From Palace’s perspective, a permanent move would align with their recent recruitment strategy: targeting young, high-upside players capable of adapting to the Premier League over time.

Having followed Palace closely this season, their squad-building has increasingly focused on adding technical width and long-term depth. João Mário’s profile — pace, one-v-one ability and age — fits that brief, even if adaptation time is required.

For Juventus, the appeal of Palace’s stance is obvious. A permanent deal would provide clarity, immediate financial return and squad flexibility, rather than deferring decisions via loan structures.

However, it remains too early to draw firm conclusions. Juventus must weigh guaranteed exits against the upside of buy-option loans, while Palace will assess value, timing and competition from Iberian clubs.

With January approaching, João Mário’s future looks set to be resolved sooner rather than later. Juventus are open to multiple solutions, but Crystal Palace’s willingness to commit permanently could prove decisive if negotiations accelerate.

Much will depend on Palace’s next move — and whether they are prepared to formalise interest before rival loan offers gather momentum.

Should Crystal Palace move quickly to secure João Mário outright, or wait to see if Juventus lower their demands as January unfolds?