Juventus Seek Classic No 9 to Transform Attack

Juventus are back in the market for a classic No 9 – and they want power as much as polish.

Luciano Spalletti has asked for a physical centre-forward to change the face of his attack for the new season, and the club have set their sights firmly on the Premier League as they hunt for the right profile. Alternative options such as Joshua Zirkzee have been studied, but the Bianconeri are widening the net rather than locking in on a single name.

Sport director Frederic Massara is driving the search, sifting through opportunities and prices as Juventus look for a striker who can attack space, occupy defenders and give their frontline a more direct edge.

Mateta back in the frame

One name has pushed itself back to the front of the conversation.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta has re-emerged as a serious target after offering himself to Juventus. The Frenchman, under contract at Selhurst Park until June 2027, is understood to be open to a new challenge following a change in the dugout at Palace.

Juventus are tracking his situation closely. Mateta’s physical presence, Premier League experience and contract status make him a live option as Massara weighs up the final shortlist for Spalletti.

He is not alone on it.

Young forwards under the spotlight

The Italian giants have also cast their eye over several younger European forwards as they look to deepen the squad without losing balance.

Among the names monitored are Nottingham Forest’s Arnaud Kalimuendo and Newcastle United’s Nick Woltemade, both on the radar of other top clubs, including Napoli. These are profiles for today and tomorrow – mobile, developing, and still relatively accessible on the market.

That is where the real battle lies. Any move must fit strict financial parameters and the current squad structure. Juventus cannot simply stockpile forwards; they need room on the wage bill and in the dressing room before committing to a deal.

Outgoings will decide everything

Before any new striker walks through the door, Juventus know they must clear the way.

The exit of Canadian forward Jonathan David is described as a key condition for pushing ahead with incoming business. His departure would free up both space in attack and crucial funds, unlocking the final phase of the club’s transfer strategy.

The clock is ticking on the window. Juventus have their profiles, their priorities and their conditions. Now the question is simple: can they move players out in time to land the centre-forward Spalletti wants?