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Juventus move fast for Bundesliga’ midfielder

Published

9 months ago

December 23, 2025

Juventus are exploring new options to reinforce their midfield, and RB Leipzig’s Xaver Schlager has emerged as a serious candidate ahead of the summer transfer window.

According to Sky Sport Italia, the Bianconeri are closely monitoring the Austrian international, who is approaching the final months of his contract and could become available on a free transfer.

Juventus’ current midfield setup has raised concerns about squad depth. Manuel Locatelli and Khephren Thuram remain the undisputed starters in Luciano Spalletti’s 3-4-2-1 system, while other midfielders have often been used out of position.

Teun Koopmeiners and Weston McKennie have been deployed in more advanced or wide roles, leaving Fabio Miretti as the only natural backup option in the center of the pitch.

The club is actively searching for reinforcements, especially with the intense demands of domestic and European competitions. As previously reported, Juventus are interested in signing Davide Frattesi during the January transfer window.

However, that pursuit appears complicated, as Inter are unlikely to facilitate a move that would strengthen one of their biggest rivals. This has pushed Juventus to also consider long-term solutions beyond the winter market.

Xaver Schlager Opportunity on a Free Transfer

Sky Sport Italia reports that Juventus see Schlager as a potential summer signing due to his contract situation at RB Leipzig. The 28-year-old midfielder is known for his energy, tactical discipline, and box-to-box profile.

Schlager began his career at RB Salzburg before moving to Wolfsburg in 2019, later returning to the Red Bull network with Leipzig in 2022.

Despite suffering a couple of muscle injuries earlier this season, Schlager has recently regained his place in the starting lineup. However, with no contract renewal in sight, his departure at the end of the campaign looks increasingly likely.

Juventus sporting director Damien Comolli is reportedly ready to capitalize on this scenario, potentially reuniting Schlager with former teammate Lois Openda.

Juventus’ renewed focus on free agents mirrors a strategy that has proven successful in the past, famously under former director Beppe Marotta.

The club’s recent acquisition of Jonathan David further underlines this approach, making Schlager a realistic and financially attractive option for the future.