Juventus Mercato is not over …

Unlike some of their rivals, who are already well-equipped or have spent heavily to raise the level of their squads, Juventus must rely on creativity to give Luciano Spalletti a team that is ready, complete and, above all, competitive.

It is still too early to make definitive judgments or hand out grades, with 14 days remaining in the transfer window and plenty of time for things to change.

However, as Spalletti himself admitted on Monday evening after the traditional mid-August celebration, “something still needs to be done” if Juventus want to compete for all their objectives.

The issue is not simply about numbers. In fact, Juventus currently have an oversized squad that needs to be trimmed. When Spalletti talks about having “two players for every position,” he is referring to the squad after excluding those considered surplus to requirements, of which there are still many.

So, what does the Juventus coach still need to turn his squad into one capable of competing at the highest level?

The answer is closely linked to departures. Juventus are expected to bring in new players only if others leave, a necessity dictated not only by the club’s financial settlement agreement but also by squad-registration rules and sporting considerations.

Nevertheless, the technical requirements are clear. Spalletti has hinted at them on several occasions while also praising the work being carried out by Giovanni Carnevali, Frederic Massara and Roberto Ottolini — collectively referred to as the club’s “directors.”

Juventus Still Need a Physical Striker

With Randal Kolo Muani now in place and expected to be the undisputed starting No. 9, Juventus are still missing a different type of centre-forward: a powerful striker capable of battling defenders, providing a physical presence in the box and breaking down stubborn defenses when matches become difficult.

In other words, Juventus still need “a Vlahovic.”

Whether such a player will actually arrive remains uncertain. The club must operate under a low-cost strategy, meaning a loan deal or a free transfer would be the most realistic solutions.

One name that has been circulating for some time is Joshua Zirkzee. The Dutchman is particularly appreciated by sporting director Massara, who reportedly wanted to bring him to Roma in the past.

Zirkzee would offer a different profile and could become a serious option if Jonathan David leaves Juventus.

David has slipped down Spalletti’s hierarchy and could potentially be overtaken by young striker Ekhator. Should the Canadian depart, Juventus could make a late attempt to bring Zirkzee in on loan before the transfer window closes.

However, Zirkzee is not the only option. According to Tuttosport, Juventus continue to appreciate Alexander Sørloth, although the financial cost has so far prevented the club from making a serious move.

The Norwegian is also a player Spalletti likes, having reportedly spoken with him before the World Cup, when Comolli was still in charge at Continassa.

The situation could also be influenced by Juventus’ discussions with Atletico Madrid, particularly those involving Nico Gonzalez.

Another name worth monitoring is Jean-Philippe Mateta. The Crystal Palace striker came close to joining AC Milan in January, with the move ultimately collapsing after medical concerns surrounding his knee. Nevertheless, his physical characteristics make him an intriguing option for Juventus.

Kessié and a New Left-Back Also on the List

Midfield is another area that could see movement. Franck Kessié remains a name to watch. The Ivorian, who is coming off an excellent World Cup, is currently a free agent, although his salary demands are significant.

Juventus will need to carefully assess the situation, particularly because they must first create room both financially and within the squad. The midfield has become one of the most crowded areas of the team, especially if Douglas Luiz remains in Turin.

Finally, Spalletti would like another left-back, essentially a player capable of providing an alternative to Andrea Cambiaso, perhaps with a more defensive profile. This need could become even more pressing if Juan Cabal leaves.

Juventus have explored the possibility of signing David Raum from RB Leipzig, although the German international’s asking price currently appears prohibitive.

The final two weeks of the transfer window could therefore be crucial for the Bianconeri. Juventus have clear technical needs, but every incoming move will depend heavily on departures, finances and the available opportunities.

As Tuttosport underlines, the priority is not simply to add numbers. Juventus must find the right profiles to complement Spalletti’s ideas while simultaneously reducing the size and wage bill of an already overcrowded squad.

The coming days will reveal whether the club can find the creativity required to complete the final pieces of the puzzle.

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