Juventus are facing a complex situation with two forwards, Jonathan David and Nico Gonzalez, as the transfer window progresses. David, despite being identified as a potential departure by manager Luciano Spalletti following a season where he scored 8 goals, has expressed his desire to remain in Turin and fight for his place. According to reports from Italy, the Canadian international intends to convince Spalletti of his value during training upon his return from post-World Cup duties.
Gonzalez, however, presents the opposite problem. After a loan spell at Atletico Madrid under Diego Simeone, the Argentinian winger has informed Juventus he does not wish to return to the Allianz Stadium. He is reportedly seeking either a permanent move to Atletico or a transfer to another club, and has been candid with club officials about his preference. Juventus are now working against the clock to resolve both situations, hoping to loan David and secure a fee of at least €27 million for Gonzalez.
David’s high salary – €6 million net per year plus bonuses – is proving to be a significant obstacle to a potential transfer, with few clubs able to afford his wages, even on a loan deal. He joined Juventus last summer following his departure from Lille, where he experienced a similar slow start before becoming a prolific goalscorer. David is hoping to replicate that trajectory in Italy, but the club are exploring alternative options, including Joshua Zirkzee of Manchester United and Dennis Pellegrino of Parma.
The situation is further complicated by injuries and departures within the Juventus attack. Dusan Vlahovic has left the club, new signing Jeff Ekhator is currently sidelined, Kenan Yildiz is not yet training with the group, and Arek Milik has suffered another injury. With Lois Openda also poised to join Lyon, David could find himself as the only available senior striker when he returns to training on Tuesday, even with ongoing negotiations for Randal Kolo Muani of Paris Saint-Germain.
Spalletti, who previously admired Gonzalez during his time at Fiorentina, is keen to integrate the Argentinian into his new-look Juventus side. However, Gonzalez is still affected by the negative experiences of his single season at the club in 2024-25, including criticism and jeers from supporters. His representatives are actively seeking a swift resolution to avoid him having to rejoin the squad during pre-season. The issue appears to be more about the environment than technical considerations.
