Spalletti reshapes the attack, but Juve’s winter plans hinge on timing, creativity, and one possible striker swap
Juventus’ scoreless draw with Lecce didn’t just cost points—it exposed, once again, how fragile the Bianconeri attack still is. A missed penalty by Jonathan David, a wasted chance by Lois Openda, and a growing sense that the summer rebuild up front hasn’t delivered. Now, as January unfolds, Juventus are trying to fix the problem with ideas, patience, and—possibly—the transfer market.
Spalletti’s stopgap solutions
The numbers are unforgiving. Since arriving at Continassa, David and Openda have scored just five goals combined. Not nearly enough for a club with Juventus’ ambitions. That’s why Luciano Spalletti is experimenting.
In the newly introduced 4-2-3-1, Kenan Yildiz has been tested as a false nine, while Weston McKennie plays a hybrid role, attacking spaces with late runs rather than acting as a classic midfielder. It’s an attempt to unlock movement and unpredictability—but it’s clearly a temporary fix.
Chiesa: waiting on Africa
The name Juventus keep circling back to is Federico Chiesa. The idea is alive, very much so, but timing is everything. Juventus won’t know more before mid-January, when the Africa Cup of Nations ends and Mohamed Salah’s situation becomes clearer.
Only then will Liverpool consider opening the door to a loan. Chiesa would offer versatility—able to play as a mobile striker or on either wing—and would instantly become an alternative to Yildiz. A return to Turin would appeal to him, even if part of his motivation remains proving himself in the Premier League.
What Chiesa would not be, however, is the physical reference Juventus currently lack.
The need for a true No.9
With Dušan Vlahović sidelined, Juventus are missing a forward who combines strength, presence, and reliability in the box. David can battle defenders, but he is still adapting to a new environment and hasn’t yet imposed himself consistently.
That’s where Alexander Sørloth enters the picture. The Norwegian fits the profile perfectly—and an intriguing scenario is taking shape. With Giacomo Raspadori potentially heading to Roma, Atletico Madrid could open discussions on a loan swap: David to La Liga, Sørloth to Turin.
It’s still a fragile idea, but not a fantasy. David has long admired Spanish football, and Atlético coach Diego Simeone values technical forwards who can grow into his system.
Market help—or survival mode
Juventus know the January window rarely offers miracles. Other names float around—Daniel Maldini, Lorenzo Lucca, even younger profiles—but nothing concrete yet. If no opportunity materializes, Spalletti will press on with internal solutions, trusting Openda’s versatility and hoping David learns quickly how to dominate the penalty area.
One thing is certain: the Juventus attack, as built in the summer, is still far from takeoff. January may not bring a revolution—but even one precise move could change the trajectory of the season.
