Juventus focuses in January on World Cup sensation Folarin Balogun

Juventus hopes that in the winter transfer window, which starts in January, they can bring in the American striker Folaris Balogun. The club from Turin has a clear shortage of a centre‑forward and sees Balogun as the ideal solution, reports the Italian media Tuttosport.

Striker shortage at Juventus

According to Tuttosport, the lack of an extra centre‑forward became evident already at the end of August. In addition to the need for a left‑back, the Bianconeri lack a regular goal scorer; so far Nick Woltemade, on loan from Newcastle United, is the only genuine number nine at Juve. The media writes that most attention is now focused on Balogun, who is labelled the “top target” for January.

Balogun is currently on the bench at AS Monaco, where he has only appeared on the pitch four times this season. He has to compete with Paris Brunner, who has the trust as the first striker, and Matthis Abline, who was bought last summer for around €25 million from FC Nantes and sits above Balogun in the pecking order.

Hot summer, failed transfer

The 25‑year‑old American made a splash at the World Cup last summer by scoring three goals in his first three appearances, but received a red card in the second round against Bosnia & Herzegovina. A subsequent suspension was miraculously lifted, allowing him to play the full match against Belgium in the round of 16, although the US lost 1‑4.

Juventus eyes attack: Sesko and Balogun on the reinforcement list

Balogun seemed set to join Everton in September, but walked away from the training facility after a medical examination. Everton were concerned about his medical history following the World Cup appearances and thought he was not 100 % fit. Ultimately he returned to Monaco, where a minor injury hampered his start to the season and he was not included in the club’s UEFA Conference League squad.

Balogun has two seasons left on his current contract with Monaco, which expires in June 2028. He moved from Arsenal to Monaco in the summer of 2023 and has scored 31 goals in 95 matches since that transfer. Last season he netted 19 goals, winning Monaco’s Player of the Season award, and he added three goals for the US at the World Cup.

Monaco currently sit in fourth place in Ligue 1, two points behind leaders Paris Saint‑Germain after eight matches played. A potential sale of Balogun could give the club a major financial boost, but the winter opportunity for Juventus remains attractive.

Juventus hope to conclude negotiations in the coming weeks, so that Balogun is available in January to strengthen the Bianconeri’s attack alongside international teammate Weston McKennie.