Juventus Pursues New No. 9 Striker for Upcoming Season

Juventus are back in the market for a classic No. 9, and this time the profile is clear: a powerful, physical centre-forward to anchor Luciano Spalletti’s attack for the new season.

Calciomercato report that the Bianconeri have widened their search, casting an eye over several Premier League options while keeping alternative targets like Joshua Zirkzee in the conversation. Sport director Frederic Massara is working through a crowded striker market, trying to pinpoint someone who can give Juventus more direct punch in the final third.

Mateta back in the frame

Out of that shortlist, one name has pushed itself back to the front: Jean-Philippe Mateta.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Crystal Palace striker has re-emerged as a major target after making it known he would be open to a move to Turin. The Frenchman is tied to Selhurst Park until June 2027, but the recent managerial change at Palace has prompted him to reassess his future and consider a new challenge.

Juventus are watching closely. Mateta’s physical presence, Premier League experience and willingness to move tick several boxes as Massara and Spalletti look for a reference point up front. He is not alone on their list, but his situation is now firmly under review in Turin.

Young forwards on the radar

The Italian giants are not limiting themselves to one profile. The recruitment team have been tracking a cluster of young European forwards to deepen the squad and inject fresh competition.

Among the names followed are Nottingham Forest’s Arnaud Kalimuendo and Newcastle United’s Nick Woltemade. Both have attracted interest from several leading clubs, with Napoli also monitoring their progress, underlining how contested this segment of the market has become.

Juventus, though, cannot simply stockpile attackers. Every potential move is being measured against strict financial parameters and the realities of squad space. Any signing has to fit both the balance sheet and the dressing room.

Outgoings will decide everything

Before Massara can press ahead with any attacking reinforcement, one obstacle remains: exits.

The departure of Canadian forward Jonathan David is seen as a key condition for unlocking the next phase of business. His sale would free up both budget and room in the squad, allowing Juventus to move decisively for a new No. 9 rather than just browse options.

The clock is ticking. As the transfer window heads into its final stretch, the success of Juventus’ attacking rebuild will hinge on how quickly they can clear the path — and whether the right striker is still waiting when they do.