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Spalletti’s midfield wish list: three names

Published

11 months ago

November 2, 2025

Luciano Spalletti, the new Juventus manager, has already outlined his transfer priorities for the upcoming winter window. According to reports from CalcioMercato, the Italian coach has presented the club’s directors with a shortlist of names to strengthen the midfield.

His main request is for a versatile player capable of operating both as a central midfielder and as a deep-lying playmaker. Spalletti’s approach to building a balanced team remains consistent with his philosophy.

He seeks dynamic, intelligent players who can maintain possession, control tempo, and contribute both defensively and creatively. Juventus, after a mixed start to the season, are eager to back their coach with signings that fit his tactical system.

Three midfielders on Spalleti’s wishlist

Among the options discussed, Spalletti reportedly has three players in mind. The first two are Davide Frattesi …

and Piotr Zieliński both currently at Inter.

Neither player is a regular starter under Simone Inzaghi, and their reduced playing time could make a move appealing.

Frattesi, known for his energy and late runs into the box, would add dynamism to the Juventus midfield. Zieliński, on the other hand, offers vision, technical precision, and creativity — qualities Spalletti values highly after coaching him successfully during their time together at Napoli.

The third name mentioned is Nicolò Fagioli, currently playing for Fiorentina. The 23-year-old midfielder, once part of Juventus’ youth system, remains a favorite of Spalletti.

During his tenure as Italy’s national team coach, Spalletti chose Fagioli for the European Championship squad over Manuel Locatelli, demonstrating his admiration for the player’s intelligence and composure on the ball.

While negotiations have yet to begin, Juventus are reportedly open to exploring these opportunities. Financial considerations could influence the final decision, but Spalletti’s desire for a technically skilled and tactically flexible midfielder seems clear.

With the January transfer market approaching, Juventus fans can expect active discussions as the club looks to strengthen its core and support Spalletti’s ambitious project in Turin.