Juventus is aiming high this season, but addressing their goal-scoring struggles from the previous year is crucial. With only two players, Dusan Vlahovic and Federico Chiesa, reaching double digits in goals, the team finished seventh among Serie A’s top attacks, tied with Bologna. As they make strides in the transfer market, having already signed four players, Juventus is now focusing on strengthening their attacking options.
The club may look to bring in between one to three new signings upfront. A winger is a must for manager Thiago Motta, with the possibility of adding another if Chiesa is sold. In central positions, director Cristiano Giuntoli is considering several alternatives to Vlahovic for when the Serbian needs a break. However, the priority remains on securing a winger, with Fiorentina’s Nicolas Gonzalez emerging as a top target. Discussions began three days ago, and Juventus is aware that Gonzalez is open to a move, though they need to assess him further compared to longer-term targets like Galeno from Porto and Karim Adeyemi from Borussia Dortmund.
The German forward’s prospects seem to have dimmed, as Dortmund is unwilling to lower their asking price for the 22-year-old, viewing him as key to their plans. On the other hand, Galeno’s situation is complicated by the need for financial compliance, making his potential transfer more feasible and attractive to Juventus.
Gonzalez stands out as a strong left-footer with quick adaptability to Serie A. His signing could also be linked to a potential transfer for Weston McKennie, who has already been approached by Fiorentina. The American midfielder turned down a move to Aston Villa earlier this summer but could be sold for a fee between €10-15 million, making him a useful asset in negotiations for Gonzalez.
However, any real movement on this front will depend on received offers, particularly since Atalanta is reportedly interested in McKennie. The window will remain uncertain until active discussions can occur Monday, once Gonzalez returns from holiday after winning the Copa America with Argentina. It will be then that he can express his desire to leave, although he is currently considered a key player for Raffaele Palladino’s plans.
As for finding a deputy for Vlahovic, the club’s attention will shift to this task after resolving other pressing issues, including those involving defenders Todibo and Teun Koopmeiners. Currently in the squad is Arkadiusz Milik, the third-highest scorer from last season, but injuries have hindered his progress this summer. Thus, last-minute low-cost options may become necessary.
One player now on Giuntoli’s radar is Chelsea’s Armando Broja. While the Blues are aiming for a permanent transfer, they haven’t received compelling offers yet, which might lead them to be more flexible with potential loan agreements. Additionally, the Albanian striker could fill a special quota for non-Italian players that Juventus still has available. Broja’s combination of size and skill could offer an affordable alternative to Milik.