First Spalleti’s request for January Mercato – the names

Changing the coach doesn’t change the team’s core issues. Juventus had squad gaps under Igor Tudor, and those weaknesses remain despite the arrival of Luciano Spalletti.

The new coach will take time to study his players, evaluate their traits during training, and then tailor a tactical system that suits them. But one thing is clear — the club’s needs haven’t changed, only the man in charge has.

According to Tuttosport, Spalletti’s top priority is a true regista, a deep-lying playmaker capable of dictating rhythm and controlling the game.

Luciano Spalleti 📸

Tudor wanted one but never got his wish. Spalletti, on the other hand, demands it. For him, creativity begins with a brain at the heart of midfield.

Throughout his career, Spalletti has always relied on such players. He once trusted David Pizarro at both Udinese and Roma. Later, at Roma again, he transformed Leandro Paredes into a top-level playmaker.

That change paved the way for Paredes’ move to Paris Saint-Germain and, eventually, a World Cup title. Spalletti also played a key role in reviving Marcelo Brozović’s career at Inter, where the Croatian evolved into one of Serie A’s best midfield conductors.

His greatest masterpiece, however, came in Naples, where he shaped Stanislav Lobotka into a champion and central figure in Napoli’s Scudetto-winning side.

Juventus Reignite Interest in Morten Hjulmand and Eye Future Reinforcements

Morten Hjulmand 📸

Because of Spalletti’s philosophy, Juventus are once again turning their attention to Morten Hjulmand, captain of Sporting CP. The Danish midfielder is considered one of Europe’s finest young playmakers and has long been admired by Juventus scouts.

Tuttosport reports that the club seriously explored a move for him last summer, though the Portuguese side refused to negotiate. Sporting have a release clause of €80 million, a figure Juventus would never pay, but a deal near €45 million could revive interest.

Spalletti is said to be highly attracted by Hjulmand’s technical ability and tactical discipline. However, prying him away in January would be extremely difficult. Still, Juventus will observe him closely when Sporting visit the Allianz Stadium in the upcoming Champions League clash.

Ayyoub Bouaddi 📸

Other options are also under evaluation. The Bianconeri are tracking Ayyoub Bouaddi, an 18-year-old talent from Lille, though his €30 million valuation makes him more of a target for June.

Another name mentioned is Xaver Schlager of RB Leipzig, a reliable midfielder but nearing 29 and not in his best form. Beyond midfield, Juventus are also searching for a new right-back with pace, stamina, and physical strength.

Xaver Schlager 📸

Tudor’s previous experiments with Kalulu on that flank were unsuccessful, and Joao Mario failed to convince early on. One interesting name is Brooke Norton-Cuffy, the 2004-born English defender now impressing at Genoa.

Spalletti and sporting director Comolli are monitoring him closely, seeing potential for an immediate January reinforcement. For Juventus, the message is clear — new coach, same ambitions. And under Spalletti, the hunt for elegance, balance, and creativity begins again.

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D.Z

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