Juventus have confirmed the arrival of Southampton midfielder Carlos Alcaraz on loan with an option to buy.
The 21-year-old makes the switch to Turin just one year after joining Southampton from Argentinian outfit Racing Club, since when he has amassed eight goals and five assists in 47 games for the Saints.
Alcaraz came up with four goals and three assists from 26 games for Russell Martin's side in the first half of the 2023-24 season, but he has made the starting lineup on just 13 occasions in the Championship.
Alcaraz remains contracted to Southampton until 2028, but the 2002-born lynchpin will spend at least the next five months of his career with Juventus, who could pay up to €5.8m (£5m) for his signature on a temporary basis.
In addition, the Old Lady have confirmed that they possess the option to make his stay permanent for €49.5m (£42.2m) at the end of the season, which could also increase based on performance-related objectives.
Alcaraz reinforces Massimiliano Allegri's midfield following the suspensions of Paul Pogba and Nicolo Fagioli, the latter of whom will be on the naughty step until the end of the season due to his gambling misdemeanours.
Meanwhile, Pogba is yet to be officially sanctioned for testing positive for testosterone, but prosecutors are seeking the maximum four-year penalty for the French World Cup winner.
Alcaraz is the second new face to arrive at the Allianz Stadium this month after Portuguese defender Tiago Djalo, who joined on a permanent deal from Lille last week.
Ben Knapton
