Juventus have made finding an alternative to Kenan Yildiz one of their top priorities for the January transfer window. Tuttosport report that Luciano Spalletti has asked for an attacking option capable of giving the young Turkish forward some respite — a technically gifted wide player, quick on the ball, comfortable in tight spaces, and with an eye for goal.
While the club remains cautious about significant spending, Juventus are actively exploring what they consider “intelligent” market opportunities: players seeking new challenges, out of favour at their clubs, or available on favourable terms. The goal is clear — recruit an experienced, reliable reinforcement who can complement Yildiz without compromising the club’s financial balance.
Chiesa or Carrasco the Main Targets
Federico Chiesa remains the dream signing. His deep familiarity with the Juventus environment, knowledge of Serie A, and proven versatility make him the ideal profile for Spalletti’s system. The Italian coach, who worked with Chiesa during his tenure with the national team, has made clear his admiration for the player’s dynamism and creativity.
However, Liverpool’s valuation of between €15 and €20 million currently stands in the way. Without player sales, Juventus are unlikely to match that figure, prompting the club to examine potential alternatives should the Reds refuse to negotiate on more flexible terms. Chiesa himself is reportedly keen on a return to Italy, but the financial details remain complex.
Should that avenue close, the most viable alternative appears to be Yannick Ferreira Carrasco. The Belgian winger, formerly of Atlético Madrid, is nearing the end of his stint with Al-Shabab in Saudi Arabia and is eager to make a return to Europe. Now 32, Carrasco is keen for one last spell at a club competing in continental competitions.
Nevertheless, concerns persist about his physical condition after two and a half years in the Middle East, as well as the high cost of his salary — around €13 million gross per season — and the likely transfer fee demanded by Al-Shabab, who hold him under contract until 2027.
Other Options Under Review
Juventus’s scouting team are also keeping tabs on other potential candidates. Among them is Thiago Almada, the Argentine playmaker acquired by Atlético Madrid from Botafogo last summer but struggling for game time under Diego Simeone. The 23-year-old’s creativity and flair match the club’s requirements, and intermediaries have proposed his name recently during informal talks.
Another possibility is Daniel Maldini, the Atalanta forward and son of Milan legend Paolo Maldini. His agent, Beppe Riso, is in regular contact with Juventus due to other ongoing negotiations, and the forward’s ability to operate centrally or from wide areas makes him a versatile option under consideration. Lazio, however, are also believed to be in contact for the 24-year-old.
For now, the search continues. Whether it’s a familiar face like Chiesa or a more unconventional route such as Almada or Carrasco, the Bianconeri’s goal remains the same: to provide Spalletti with a dynamic attacking option capable of both supporting and challenging Yildiz as Juventus look to build momentum for the second half of the season.
