Juventus’ management are once again active behind the scenes as the club looks to strengthen its midfield in January. After the narrow win away to Pisa, the message could not be clearer: the Bianconeri need a player capable of dictating tempo, bringing creativity, and providing control in difficult moments.
While Manuel Locatelli’s display was solid and Fabio Miretti impressed when introduced, it was evident in stretches that Juventus lacked a true deep-lying playmaker — someone capable of managing possession and building rhythm from the base of midfield.
Searching for a Regista
Tuttosport report that the club’s scouts and directors are assessing several names, with a particular focus on midfielders who can both protect the defence and initiate attacks. Konrad Laimer and Nicolas Seiwald have been discussed internally in the past, but Juventus’ most recent contacts involve Leipzig’s Xaver Schlager, whose contract situation could make him available for free in 2026, and Feyenoord’s Quinten Timber, considered one of the more attainable options for this winter.
However, the name that excites the Juventus hierarchy the most is Adrian Bernabé. The Spanish midfielder has been one of Parma’s standout performers this season, and thanks to an excellent relationship between the two clubs, the Bianconeri view him as a realistic target. Parma are expected to demand around €25 million for the 24-year-old — less than the €30 million Inter would request for Davide Frattesi, who remains another player admired in Turin.
Tactical Fit and Market Strategy
Bringing in a playmaker would complement Spalletti’s tactical setup, providing balance and composure to a side that often relies on energy and compactness. Juventus’ management are exploring several formulas to make such a deal work, mindful of their financial constraints and a transfer policy now built on self-sustainability.
Inter’s “provocation” of a potential player swap involving Khephren Thuram appears unlikely from a Juventus perspective, yet the club continues to explore creative options. One possible asset could be Tarik Muharemovic, the young Sassuolo defender for whom Juventus still hold a 50% sell-on clause. His inclusion in future negotiations could provide financial flexibility.
More Than Just the Midfield
Beyond the search for a regista, Juventus are also keeping an eye on right-sided reinforcements, with Genoa’s Brooke Norton-Cuffy among the names discussed — possibly linked to a separate negotiation involving goalkeeper Mattia Perin. The club also remain open to adding another forward — either a deputy to Kenan Yildiz or an alternative to Dusan Vlahovic — though any such move will depend entirely on market opportunities.
