Juventus are positioning themselves for a more strategic approach in the upcoming transfer market, with their focus firmly set on smart opportunities rather than major changes this January. After last summer saw several arrivals that have yet to make a significant impact, the club’s plan — as reaffirmed by Damien Comolli — is to carefully study every move under the lens of Financial Fair Play. This won’t halt activity altogether, but it does mean Juventus are on the lookout for deals that won’t disrupt the current squad or stretch their budget.
Tuttosport (as quoted by ilBianconero) report that one enticing target is Rodrigo Mendoza, a talented midfielder born in 2005 who first caught Juventus’s attention at the U20 World Cup. The Spanish youngster plays for Elche in La Liga and recently signed a contract extension with the club, who have reportedly inserted a €20 million release clause. Mendoza’s skills as a deep-lying playmaker have already seen him compared to Pedri in Spain, and he continues to impress for Spain’s U21 side, not least with his recent goal in a 7-0 win over San Marino.
Juventus are far from alone in their pursuit. European heavyweights Real Madrid and Manchester City have also placed Mendoza firmly on their radar, while clubs like Como and even interest from Saudi Arabia and the Red Bull-owned teams have emerged. Mendoza’s development is closely monitored by many, but his profile fits neatly with what Spalletti is looking for in midfield.
The clause set by Elche makes this a potentially affordable move compared to other targets like Hjulmand or Bernabé. Nonetheless, fierce competition means Juventus will need to move swiftly and decisively, with multiple clubs continuing to scout Mendoza and weigh up a January bid.
