Juventus are finding it difficult to reshape their attacking options this summer, with Jonathan David reportedly unwilling to leave the club despite the arrival of new manager, Lucio Spalletti. The situation stems from the need to generate funds following the departure of Dusan Vlahovic, and to create space in the squad for potential signings such as Kolo Muani and Alexander Sorloth.
According to reports from Italian outlet TuttoSport, Juventus are hoping to move on players like Openda, potentially through a loan deal with an option or obligation to buy, and crucially, David. However, the Canadian international has publicly stated his desire to remain in Turin, having signed a five-year contract with the club. David earns a reported €6 million net per year, a figure that makes a move elsewhere challenging given the limited number of clubs able to match his current wages.
The club’s pursuit of Alexander Sorloth is also facing complications, with Atlético Madrid reportedly seeking over €40 million for the Norwegian forward, a fee Juventus currently deem too high. Negotiations between the two clubs have stalled, and a breakthrough is unlikely before the conclusion of Sorloth’s participation in the ongoing tournament in the USA. Without a reduction in Atlético’s asking price, Juventus will be forced to explore alternative options.
To that end, the club has been presented with the opportunity to sign Mateo Pellegrino, the Argentinian forward currently at Parma. Pellegrino’s representatives have offered his services to Juventus, and the club are reportedly interested in the 22-year-old, who scored 12 goals in 39 appearances for Parma last season. Pellegrino’s reported €25 million price tag is significantly lower than Sorloth’s valuation, and would allow Juventus to avoid relying on finding a buyer for David. Fiorentina are also said to be monitoring Pellegrino’s situation. Juventus are hoping to secure a loan deal with an obligation to buy for Pellegrino, should they pursue the Argentinian.
