Juventus are considering a January move for Atletico Madrid striker Alexander Sorloth as they look for a new number-nine option. The forward has returned to the club’s shortlist.
Juventus’ number-nine plan
A new number nine is on Juventus’ wishlist for January. At the start of 2027, Juventus want a penalty-box striker who can make his presence felt in front of goal, complement Woltemade and Kolo Muani, or provide an alternative to them.
Juventus sent sporting director Ottolini to Oslo in June to explore a deal for Sorloth and explain Spalletti’s project to him. Spalletti is a great admirer of the striker.
Sorloth’s playing situation
After the World Cup, a move for Sorloth to Juventus fell through because of the cost of the deal, Simeone’s desire to keep him in the squad and the expensive purchase of Kolo Muani. Juventus could revive their interest in January, with the outcome potentially different this time.
Sorloth is described as happy in Madrid but wanting more minutes. He has barely featured this year, making cameos rather than even serving as second choice, with 155 minutes this season across La Liga and the Champions League and no goals.
Sorloth is 30. The report states that if his playing time does not change in the coming weeks, he will speak to Atletico Madrid and the manager and ask them to let him leave.
Contract and Atletico statistics
Sorloth has played for Atletico Madrid since 2024 and has scored 44 goals in 113 appearances. He is under contract until 2028 and has also been described as a former Leipzig, Real Sociedad and Trabzonspor player.
His transfer fee topped €30 million in the summer. His limited appearances and the approaching expiry of his contract are set to bring his price down in January.
Juventus weigh their options
Juventus are weighing up their options and have not ruled out contacting Atletico Madrid. The clubs have an excellent relationship, illustrated by the loan of Canadian forward Jonathan David to Atletico Madrid. David is described as having rediscovered the form he showed at Lille while at Atletico Madrid.
Sorloth earns around €6 million gross a year. Juventus can afford his salary as they look to rebuild and achieve their Champions League objective.
