Juventus’ transfer window in January 2026 is shaping up to remain active, even after the Bianconeri secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Napoli in Serie A. Head coach Luciano Spalletti has openly requested that the club bring in a new central striker, citing tactical gaps that remain in the squad despite their recent triumph.
The emphatic win, while impressive, did not satisfy Spalletti completely. His attention is focused on Juventus’ frontline, which, although productive, lacks a specific physical profile he deems necessary for the rigors of the Serie A season ahead.
Jonathan David Shines but Isn’t the Complete Solution
Canadian striker Jonathan David has been in good form this season, with his recent goal against Napoli marking his fourth Serie A strike. However, Spalletti has highlighted that while David is an excellent finisher, the team still lacks a player who can act as a physical focal point in the box, someone capable of holding up play and winning aerial duels consistently.
“David is a strong player, and tonight he showed he can fight in tight spaces in the penalty area where there’s no room. You have to wrestle for it from your opponents,” Spalletti said.
“When you give it your all in these moments, it works. He scored as a true striker, but there’s another type of striker we need,” he added.
Spalletti’s concern is not a critique of David’s finishing ability but rather an acknowledgment of the different tactical demands Juventus faces in the remaining matches of the season.
Missing the Hojlund-Type Striker
The coach specifically referenced Rasmus Hojlund, noting that Juventus lacks a striker capable of acting as a pivot under pressure. Such a player can receive long balls, shield the ball, and maintain possession while teammates join the attack—a role David cannot fully fulfill due to his playing style.
“A player like Hojlund drops into midfield, you hit the ball towards him, and he keeps it playable. That’s something we don’t currently have,” Spalletti explained.
“David is excellent at scoring, but when you look at the bigger picture, you also need someone who can fight physically with center-backs,” he emphasized.
This type of striker would allow Juventus to diversify their attacking strategies, especially in tight Serie A fixtures where controlling possession and maintaining pressure is crucial.
Transfer Demands Explained
Spalletti clarified that his call for a striker is not a criticism of David. Rather, he wants to add another tactical option to complement the team’s existing offensive weapons.
“We’re not looking for a striker just to score goals, but for that type of physical work,” he said.
“David is strong, but he can’t do that specific job. If the team stays solid defensively and David keeps scoring as he has been, we’re fine, but having a backup option would give us extra security.”
A physically imposing striker would help Juventus adapt to different defensive setups, allowing them to maintain their unbeaten momentum and challenge for top positions in the league.
Weston McKennie: An Unexpected Alternative
Interestingly, in the absence of a pure target man, Spalletti praised Weston McKennie, the American midfielder, for his unique physical attributes. McKennie’s ability to win aerial duels and engage in physical battles makes him a surprising tactical option as a striker if needed.
“McKennie is like the perfect center-forward, one of the strongest in the air. He fights, jumps impressively, and makes smart decisions on the pitch. He could play as a striker perfectly,” Spalletti said.
McKennie’s versatility provides Juventus with additional flexibility during the January transfer window, giving them a short-term solution even as they search for a specialized forward.
Looking Ahead
As Juventus continue their Serie A campaign, Spalletti is determined to strengthen the squad to maximize their chances for domestic and European success. While Jonathan David remains a key figure in attack, the coach believes that adding a physical target man will complete the tactical puzzle and provide the Bianconeri with a more balanced, resilient attack for the remainder of the season.
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