Alfredo Pedulla : Juventus’ top 3 January targets

Juventus, under Luciano Spalletti, is using the international break to experiment with a new tactical setup. The coach is focusing on shifting to a 4-3-3 formation, but making it work requires players suited to the system.

The squad’s current composition does not fully match Spalletti’s tactical vision, which has prompted the club to explore potential reinforcements. The new leadership team, led by Damien Comolli and sporting director-in-waiting Marco Ottolini, is already planning for the winter transfer window.

Luciano Spalletti & Dusan Vlahovic 📸

As the CEO recently stated, the club will target “only opportunities,” but the technical priorities are well-defined. Football market expert Alfredo Pedullà has revealed that Juventus is focusing on three critical positions, with one being an absolute priority.

The search for a midfield Maestro

According to Pedullà, the top priority is signing a true playmaker. Spalletti needs a midfielder capable of controlling the pace and rhythm of the 4-3-3 formation.

While Manuel Locatelli has been performing this role admirably, his natural skills are better suited for an attacking mezzala position. Juventus is monitoring potential options, including Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, currently at Marseille, and Adrien Bernabé of Parma, whose contract runs until 2027.

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg 📸

This midfield investment is expected to be the club’s main focus during January, as Spalletti cannot compromise on this role.

However, the coach’s demands extend beyond the midfield. Juventus is also evaluating options for a right-back and a central defender to fit the new defensive structure.

On the flank, João Mário has struggled to convince both Tudor and Spalletti, who seems to prefer Kalulu. If Mário leaves in January, the club would need to act quickly. Possible targets include Nahuel Molina from Atlético Madrid (on loan) and Brooke Norton-Cuffy, currently linked to Genoa and Napoli.

At center-back, injuries have left the squad thin. Gleison Bremer is out until December after knee surgery, leaving only Gatti, Rugani, and Kalulu as specialized options.

Tarik Muharemovic 📸

To maintain the four-man defensive line, Juventus may pursue a numerical reinforcement. Pedullà notes that a potential return of Tarik Muharemović from Sassuolo is not off the table. With the club holding 50% of his resale rights, they could re-sign him for half of the 20 million euro valuation.

In short, Juventus is preparing strategically: a playmaker is the immediate priority, while the right-back and central defender roles will be addressed depending on market opportunities.

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