Juventus are on the verge of completing a deal to sign Alexander Sorloth from Atletico Madrid, according to reports in Italy. The move is expected to be finalized within the coming week, fulfilling a key request from manager Luciano Spalletti.
Spalletti has been seeking a traditional number nine since his arrival in Turin, with the earlier pairing of David and Openda proving ineffective and Dusan Vlahovic sidelined with injury. The coach has been forced to find goalscoring solutions elsewhere, utilizing players like Yildiz and McKennie, but a dedicated striker was identified as a priority.
Sorloth, 28, offers a blend of old-fashioned and modern striker attributes. During his time under Diego Simeone at Atletico Madrid, he demonstrated an ability to lead the line as a lone forward. However, playing alongside Erling Haaland for Norway, he developed versatility, operating from the right flank and contributing to team play. This adaptability is reminiscent of Mario Mandzukic, who previously excelled for Juventus after arriving from Atletico.
Sorloth scored 44 goals in 104 appearances for Atletico Madrid, including 11 headers, a significant statistic given Juventus’ struggles in aerial situations this season. The arrival of a physically imposing striker is expected to provide more attacking options, particularly from crosses, which have been largely absent from Juventus’ play recently. Opposing Serie A defenses, which have been able to focus on doubling up on Juventus’ attacking midfielders, will now have to contend with a potent threat in the penalty area.
Juventus have reportedly agreed personal terms with Sorloth, offering a three-year contract until 2029 with an option for a fourth year, worth €4 million per season. Negotiations with Atletico Madrid are ongoing, with the Spanish club also involved in discussions regarding Nico Gonzalez. Sorloth has reportedly alerted the Norwegian national team, currently in North Carolina, that he may need to travel to complete his medical examination in the coming days. He hinted at the impending move on his Instagram page, posting a video of his best goals for Atletico with a message suggesting an important announcement was forthcoming.
