Following an underwhelming campaign, Juventus president Andrea Agnelli decided to ring some changes at the upper-management.
Former sporting director Fabio Paratici has left his post in favor of the newly-promoted Federico Cherubini, whilst former Ferrari boss Maurizio Arrivabane has been appointed as the new CEO.
Moreover, Andrea Pirlo has been sacked – despite winning the Coppa Italia and securing a Top four finish – with Massimiliano Allegri returning for a second spell.
Thus, it remains to be seen how these changes will affect the squad for next season. Whilst the Bianconeri definitely need some reinforcements, Cherubini admitted that it’s going to be a rather quiet summer in Turin.
So while the arrivals of the likes of Paul Pogba, Robin Gosens and Dusan Vlahovic could be mere pipe dreams at the moment, here are five realistic targets that Juventus should buy.
Goalkeeper: Emil Audero (Sampdoria)
After missing out on Gianluigi Donnarumma, Wojciech Szczesny is set to maintain his role as the Old Lady’s number one, whilst Carlo Pinsoglio will act as the third goalkeeper.
Nonetheless, Juventus still need a second choice shot-stopper to replace the legendary Gianluigi Buffon.
Whilst Mattia Perin would be a capable alternative for the Pole, the former Genoa man wishes to play regular football, which could prompt him to move elsewhere.
After impressing at Sampdoria, it might be the time for Emil Audero to return to his boyhood club, and perhaps push for a starting berth.
#Juventus are looking for Szczesny’s backup: in the #Bianconeri’s short list there are Salvatore #Sirigu (Torino), Antonio #Mirante (free agent from #ASRoma), and Emil #Audero (Sampdoria). #transfers
— Nicolò Schira (@NicoSchira) June 12, 2021
Center Back: Nikola Milenkovic (Fiorentina)
After two underwhelming years at the club, Merih Demiral could be set to leave Juventus this summer, which means that Allegri needs another center back to complete the department.
Nikola Milenkovic has been tracked by some of the biggest clubs in Europe – including Manchester United – and his contract with Fiorentina is set to expire in twelve months.
Therefore, the Serbian could be available for an affordable fee, and his Serie A experience renders him a suitable player for the Bianconeri.
West Ham have been offered the chance to sign Fiorentina centre-back Nikola Milenkovic for just £12m by his entourage, however the players preference leans towards Juventus.
[@CmdotCom_En] #WHUFC #COYI pic.twitter.com/NSUTgNbZOE
— West Ham News & Views (@WestHamViews_) June 30, 2021
Left Back: Luca Pellegrini
Ok, so technically the Italian is owned by Juventus – which means that it doesn’t exactly count as new buy.
However, the former Roma man has spent the last two seasons on loan, and never had the chance to display his talent in Turin.
With Gosens being too expensive for Juventus now, perhaps giving the young left back the chance to compete with Alex Sandro for a starting role wouldn’t be a terrible idea.
Juventus are increasingly convinced to retain Luca Pellegrini in the role of deputy of Alex Sandro: the last word will be for Allegri.
[@romeoagresti via: @GoalItalia] pic.twitter.com/x4dxVtqkfo
— Bianconeri Zone (@BianconeriZone) June 28, 2021
Central Midfielder: Manuel Locatelli (Sassuolo)
Although we believed that the Old Lady had this one already wrapped up, the likes of Arsenal and Real Madrid have entered the race following the Italian’s impressive performances at Euro 2020.
However, it feels as if Juventus are confident that they will get the deal over line, and already have the player’s preference.
The midfield has been recognized as the squad’s weakest department last season, and the Sassuolo man would surely offer a significant upgrade.
Manuel Locatelli appears to have his heart set on staying in Italy. https://t.co/dDH3bbA0Tl
— Arsenal FC News (@ArsenalFC_fl) July 2, 2021
Center Forward: Arkadiusz Milik (Marseille)
According to some reports, Juventus are eager on signing a new striker, regardless of whether Cristiano Ronaldo stays or leaves.
Whilst Fiorentina’s Dusan Vlhahovic is the ultimate dream for the black and white Tifosi, the Viola’s high valuation (70 million euros) will ward off Cherubini and company.
After spending more than four years at Napoli, Arek Milik would make a safe choice for Juventus, and a significantly cheaper one, as he could be available for around 20 millions.
Although the French side would be reluctant to let him leave only six months after joining the club, their failure to reach the Champions League could force them to make some downsizing.
⚪⚫ Arkadiusz #Milik Is Once Again On #Juve’s Radar. #SerieA #Juventus #football #Calciomercato #transfermarket #transfernews #Italy #Juve https://t.co/WIughENPp5
— Michel Sakr (@Michel_Calcio) June 1, 2021