Juventus working to sign Austrian midfielder as free agent

Juventus are closely monitoring the profile of Xaver Schlager with a view to a possible move in June, potentially on a free transfer.

According to Gianluca Di Marzio, the Bianconeri have been following the Austrian midfielder for some time, intrigued not only by his tactical reliability but also by a personality that stands out in modern football.

Born in 1997 and currently playing for RB Leipzig, Schlager represents the complete opposite of the stereotypical flashy footballer. No extravagant fashion statements, no obsession with image.

Instead, his story is rooted in simplicity, culture, and a strong connection to his origins. Raised in St. Valentin, a small Austrian town, Schlager has always remained grounded, carrying those values throughout his professional career.

A “Philosopher” Midfielder with Strong Roots

Away from the pitch, Schlager is known for his intellectual curiosity. He dedicates at least an hour a day to reading, favoring philosophical works and coming-of-age novels.

Hermann Hesse’s Siddhartha and Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist are among his favorite books, alongside essays on philosophy. He also keeps a daily “6-minute diary,” where he reflects on gratitude, goals, and personal growth.

His interests go far beyond reading. Schlager enjoys cooking, plays chess with his national teammates, and even learned to play the piano during lockdown.

His social media presence reflects this understated lifestyle, featuring photos from mountain trips, libraries, and quiet moments rather than luxury showcases.

This strong bond with his roots is also evident in his investments. In April 2025, Schlager opened the “Landgasthaus Dorfrichter,” a traditional Austrian inn run with his business partner Wolfgang Engelberger, aimed at supporting the local community.

At the same time, he has diversified his ventures, collaborating with a company that organizes luxury events on buses. On the pitch, Schlager embodies the same balance he shows in life. He is a true box-to-box midfielder, capable of defending, winning possession, and pushing forward when needed.

Despite standing at 1.74 meters, he offers solidity, tactical intelligence, and versatility across midfield roles. His career has not been without setbacks, including two serious ACL injuries in the 2021/22 and 2023/24 seasons, yet his mental resilience has been remarkable.

A former Arsenal fan who idolized Thierry Henry, Schlager’s journey took him from Salzburg to Wolfsburg and then Leipzig. With 49 caps for Austria, signing him would mean adding international experience, reliability, and notable human depth to any squad.

For Juventus, as highlighted by Gianluca Di Marzio, Xaver Schlager represents more than a transfer target: he is a footballer whose value goes well beyond the ninety minutes.

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