Juventus: Spalletti Faces a Harsh Rejection; Two Alternative Candidates Have Already Been Identified

Two months aren’t enough to make definitive judgments, but they can provide important insights—and the ones coming from Nick Woltemade don’t seem particularly encouraging for Juventus. The German forward, who arrived in Turin with the goal of adding offensive options to the Bianconeri’s attack, is facing more than a few difficulties adapting to the demands of Italian soccer and, above all, to Luciano Spalletti’s tactical principles.

The coach from Certaldo continues to work with the player, convinced of his technical abilities, but time is running out, and the general consensus is that Juventus may soon find itself facing a decision that is anything but trivial. If Woltemade fails to show convincing signs of improvement over the next two months, the possibility of scaling back his role—or even ending his loan from Newcastle early—could become a real possibility.

The issue isn’t just about individual performance. Spalletti, who is also counting on Kolo Muani—for whom Juve invested 50 million—to return to his best form, seems to be leaning toward a center forward capable of combining physicality and mobility, traits considered essential for leading the press, creating space, and linking up with the attacking midfielders. Woltemade has struggled in this regard, and his release remains more likely—for financial reasons—than that of the former PSG player.

Although the transfer window won’t reopen until January 2, the club is evaluating several candidates to get a head start. Among the names being monitored most closely is Folarin Balogun: the Monaco forward was practically already an Everton player last August, but the Toffees—despite reaching an agreement with the Principality club—faced opposition from the player himself, who preferred a European stage. Juve would offer him a higher-level competition (the Europa League) than that of the Monegasques (the Conference League).

Mateo Retegui’s name also remains on the table. The former Genoa and Atalanta striker, now with Al-Qadisiya, continues to be a sought-after player, and the allure of Serie A could hold some appeal. A return to Italy could also help him remain firmly on the radar of national team coach Roberto Mancini, who has hinted in recent days that his absence from the latest call-ups does not represent a definitive exclusion: however, competition remains fierce, and regaining a leading role in the Italian league could make all the difference.