Juventus are targeting a centre‑forward in January, linked with Napoli's Lorenzo Lucca and Crystal Palace's Jean‑Philippe Mateta as Dusan Vlahovic remains sidelined. Betting impact: odds may shorten on a Juve striker signing before the deadline — punters could favour Mateta if his fee falls, or back a short‑term Lucca move as a low‑risk punt.
Juventus step up search for a No.9
With Dusan Vlahovic sidelined long-term, Juventus have made signing a physical centre‑forward their top January priority. Current options such as Jonathan David and Lois Openda have yet to fully convince in the No.9 role, prompting the club to explore both short‑term and longer‑term solutions — including the possibility of a high‑profile homecoming for Federico Chiesa alongside a new focal striker.
Lucca: Napoli misfit could be available
Juventus have held contact over Lorenzo Lucca, who has fallen out of favour at Napoli. Brought in initially as backup, Lucca’s opportunities have been limited following reinforcements and the impending return to fitness of Romelu Lukaku. That circumstance, combined with Napoli’s own transfer plans, means Lucca could be open to a move; his arrival at Napoli was structured as a loan with an obligation to buy for a total outlay near €35m, suggesting negotiation room for interested suitors.
Mateta: scouting points to potential bargain
Scouts have been deployed to assess Jean‑Philippe Mateta, the Crystal Palace striker who attracted attention over the summer. Previously linked with a €40m price tag, Mateta’s contract running until 2027 and reported reluctance to renew could push his market value down to the €20m–€25m range. For Juventus, Mateta represents a more physical option who could be available at a reduced fee if Palace pursue sales ahead of contract expiry.
Transfer outlook and betting implications
Juventus face a clear need for a reliable centre‑forward this winter. Short‑term logic favours a player who can step in quickly and handle hold‑up duties; Lucca fits the immediate profile, while Mateta offers a potentially cheaper, more durable solution if negotiations progress. For bettors, markets to watch include odds on Juventus completing a forward signing in January, player-to-club transfer props (Mateta to Juventus), and price‑movement markets where Mateta’s valuation could shorten odds if public scouting reports surface.
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