Juventus are grappling with the underperformance of two key signings from last summer, Lois Openda and Jonathan David, according to a report from mercato. The club’s sporting director, Damien Comolli, is now facing potential financial repercussions from the deals, which have failed to yield the expected returns on the pitch.
Openda, who arrived from RB Leipzig for a reported €44 million, has scored only twice this season, struggling to make an impact under both Igor Tudor and Luciano Spalletti. The club are now considering whether to accept a loss on the forward or loan him out in the hopes of a future revival, with newly promoted Coventry City and clubs in Germany expressing initial interest. Openda’s lack of playing time – 14 appearances as a substitute – and exclusion from the Belgian World Cup squad further complicate his situation.
David, signed as a free agent but commanding a substantial €6 million salary plus bonuses, has fared slightly better with eight goals, though his form has been inconsistent. While the Canadian international is expected to feature prominently at the upcoming World Cup, Juventus are open to offers, with Paris Saint-Germain, Newcastle United, and Crystal Palace all potentially interested. Spalletti is reportedly seeking a more physically imposing striker, and a sale of David for around €25 million would represent a profit for the club.
The situation is further compounded by the struggles of other summer signings, Joao Mario, who was already loaned to Bologna in January, and Edon Zhegrova, who failed to register a goal or assist all season. Juventus are now focused on reshaping their squad, potentially renewing Dusan Vlahovic’s contract and pursuing alternative striking options such as Arnaud Muani of PSG or Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace, but will need to generate funds through player sales to do so. The club hopes to avoid a repeat of past transfer failings, referencing the impact of successful signings like Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal in a previous rebuilding phase.
