Juventus close to signing RB Leipzig striker Lois Openda
Juventus are finalising a deal to sign RB Leipzig and Belgium striker Lois Openda, according to widespread reports in Italy and Germany. The move, expected to be a permanent transfer, is seen as a key part of new manager Thiago Motta's plans to revitalise the club's attack ahead of the new Serie A season.
Sky Sport Italia and Gazzetta dello Sport both report that negotiations between Juventus and Leipzig are at an advanced stage, with the structure of a deal being worked out. While an official fee has not been disclosed, it is anticipated to be a significant investment, reflecting Openda's status and the length of his current contract in Germany, which runs until 2028.
The pursuit of Openda comes as Juventus seeks a long-term, mobile centre-forward to lead their line. The 24-year-old has established himself as one of Europe's most consistent goalscorers over the past two seasons. After a 21-goal campaign for Lens in Ligue 1, he moved to Leipzig last summer and seamlessly adapted to the Bundesliga, netting 24 league goals and providing seven assists in his debut season.
His profile fits the dynamic, pressing style favoured by incoming coach Thiago Motta, who is set to take over from the departed Massimiliano Allegri. Juventus's attack has often lacked pace and vertical threat, issues Openda's direct running and proven finishing ability are specifically recruited to address. The club has been linked with several strikers, including Romelu Lukaku, but Openda has emerged as the primary target.
For RB Leipzig, the potential sale represents a major piece of business. The club has a strong record of developing and selling attacking talent for substantial profits, having previously transferred the likes of Timo Werner, Christopher Nkunku, and Dominik Szoboszlai. The funds from an Openda sale would provide significant resources for sporting director Rouven Schröder to reinvest in the squad.
The transfer would mark a major step in Juventus's summer rebuild, giving Motta a focal point for his new tactical system. If completed, it would immediately elevate expectations in Turin, providing the star quality the forward line has lacked since the departure of Paulo Dybala. For Openda, it represents a chance to test himself in a third major European league and become the cornerstone of a historic club's new project.
