Juventus manager Massimiliano Spalletti has expressed his discontent with the club’s slow progress in the transfer market, reportedly confronting the players about the current state of the squad. According to reports in the Italian press, Spalletti is concerned that the team is still significantly incomplete with less than two weeks of training completed and only two new signings secured: free agent Celik, formerly of Roma, and young talent Ekhator from Genoa, who is currently injured and expected to be sidelined for at least twenty days.
Spalletti had anticipated a more substantial overhaul following a sixth-place finish and subsequent qualification for the Europa League last season. Initial ambitions of signing a top-tier goalkeeper like Alisson or Emiliano Martinez have not materialized, and the club is still seeking a replacement or contract renewal for striker Dusan Vlahovic. The manager is reportedly frustrated that the current squad is far from the vision he held at the end of last season.
The arrival of new sporting director Giovanni Carnevali and his deputy Ricky Massara has been well-received by Spalletti, representing a positive shift from the previous administration under Comolli. However, despite a good working relationship, the manager is growing impatient as the start of the Serie A season approaches. Spalletti reportedly told the squad directly, “Guys, change pace! I will stay here, but many of you will leave.”
Currently, Spalletti believes he only has three or four players who are guaranteed starters – Manuel Locatelli, Andrea Cambiaso, and Kalulu, with potentially Kelly or Celik joining them. Several players are considered to be on the verge of departing, including goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio, defenders Juan Cabal and Joao Mario, and midfielder Arthur. The manager is seeking at least five new additions to strengthen the team before the season begins on August 23rd against Frosinone. A key target remains Randal Kolo Muani, with Juventus reportedly increasing their offer to over 40 million euros including bonuses, and awaiting a response from Paris Saint-Germain.
