Juventus are working toward strengthening the midfield ahead of the January transfer window. The club’s priority is clear: provide Luciano Spalletti with a new deep-lying playmaker who can elevate the team’s rhythm and balance.
Spalletti wants greater control in possession and smoother transitions from defense to attack. The coaching staff believe that adding a refined passer could enhance the overall identity of the squad.
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At Juventus, Manuel Locatelli currently acts as the core of the midfield. He has grown into a reliable presence, showing leadership and consistency. However, Spalletti is evaluating new tactical adjustments.
Manuel Locatelli 📸
He sees Locatelli as a versatile option who may also perform as a mezzala or take on more advanced duties. This flexibility opens the possibility of introducing a new regista who fits Spalletti’s football principles with precision and composure.
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg the primary target
The primary target is Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, the 30-year-old Danish midfielder currently playing for Marseille reports TuttoJuve. Hojbjerg is experienced, dynamic, and respected in the locker room.
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg 📸
He has become one of the key figures in Roberto De Zerbi’s side, which is performing strongly and pushing for the top spots in Ligue 1. His leadership and tactical understanding make him essential to Marseille’s structure.
Although Hojbjerg is not a traditional playmaker, his awareness and game-reading ability allow him to direct movements effectively. He is known for clean passing, strong positioning, and the capacity to influence tempo.
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De Zerbi holds him in high regard, and removing him in January will not be straightforward. One possibility being discussed involves a potential exchange involving Manuel Locatelli.
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg 📸
De Zerbi previously worked closely with Locatelli during their shared time at Sassuolo and helped shape his growth. He still appreciates the midfielder’s qualities and tactical intelligence. Should Marseille show real interest, negotiations could take an intriguing direction, offering benefits for both clubs.
Juventus want a squad capable of controlling matches with authority and patience. A new midfield conductor would help implement this approach more clearly. The coming weeks will be decisive, as discussions advance and evaluations continue.
The club’s objective remains stable: build a midfield that supports fluid play and tactical clarity. If the deal progresses, Hojbjerg could become a central figure in Spalletti’s Juventus project.