Two of the biggest clubs in Italy, Juventus and Inter, have set their eyes on PSG’s right back Gregory Van Der Wiel for the January transfer window. Both clubs have a shortage of players in that position and the Dutch defender is looking for more minutes in the pitch.

Current Form

Van Der Wiel has been playing for PSG for three years and a half, since his arrival in the summer of 2012, but his playing time has been reduced significantly this season since Laurent Blanc has opted for Serge Aurier as a right back, and Maxwell as a left back. Nonetheless the Dutch international managed to get seven appearances in Ligue 1 and two in the Champions League with respectable performances.Before arriving to the Parisian club, where he won the league title three times, he played for Ajax for six years, winning the league twice. He also was a regular for his national team, where he played 46 games, including five in his side’s run to the World Cup final in South Africa 2010.

Juventus' lack of alternatives

Juventus this season has faced a problem in the right flank of the defense, with both their options being sidelined for several games this term. Stephan Lichsteiner had a heart problem that required surgery and was out of action for around a month, while Martín Cáceres was suspended because of DUI and was also sidelined because of an ankle injury. The Uruguayan’s physical problems have been a regular during his tenure as a Juventus player and his days playing for the bianconeri seem numbered. Due to these problems Maximiliano Allegri was forced to improvise with Andrea Barzagli and Simone Padoin in that position.

Inter's situation

Inter had similar problems, as Martín Montoya underperformed badly since his arrival from Barcelona and he’ll probably be headed back to the Spanish champions once his loan is over.  The right back has barely played and Roberto Mancini confirmed he’s not in his plans. Davide Santon started the season in that position but then was replaced by Danilo D’ambrosio without either showing fully convincing performances.

Martin Montoya arrived with big expectations (Source: Daily Express) 

Given their current situation both clubs could use a player like Van Der Wiel in the short term. They had also shown interest in Sassuolo’s Sime Vrsalkjo, but the Dutch is a more proven player at the top level with his experience in big clubs and international pedigree.