Juventus are considering promoting David Puczka from their Next Gen squad to the first team ahead of the upcoming season, according to reports in Tuttosport. The move is part of a wider strategy to integrate players from the second team into the senior squad, driven by both financial considerations and a need to bolster the squad size.
The club’s failure to qualify for the Champions League, coupled with returning loanees and players deemed surplus to requirements by coach Luciano Spalletti, has created a complex situation in the transfer market. Spalletti has reportedly requested six to seven new signings, but Juventus are looking to utilise their youth system to address squad depth and free up funds for other targets.
The Juventus Next Gen team was originally created with the intention of developing players for the first team, and while that hasn’t fully materialized in recent seasons, the club is revisiting the project. The focus is now on identifying players who are immediately ready to contribute, rather than solely relying on potential future stars. Promoting Under 23 players offers a cost-effective way to strengthen the squad.
Puczka, a left winger, was the standout performer for Juventus Next Gen last season, scoring 10 goals and providing 5 assists in 34 appearances. The 2005-born Austrian has shown consistent improvement, particularly in his defensive work, an area where he has been specifically coached by the Juventus technical staff. Spalletti is keen to assess Puczka during pre-season training, which begins in the second week of July, before making a final decision on his future.
Should Puczka fail to impress during pre-season and friendlies, Juventus are confident they could secure a transfer and generate a profit from his sale. Several foreign clubs have already expressed interest in the player, encouraged by his performances in the Next Gen league. The club believe they would have no difficulty finding a new home for him if needed, but are hopeful he can make the step up to the first team.
