Juventus Target Eljif Elmas in Ambitious Move
Juventus are exploring a deal to bring North Macedonian star Eljif Elmas back to Serie A, with the potential of a reunion with former Napoli boss Luciano Spalletti serving as a key factor. According to reports from Football Italia, the Bianconeri see Elmas as a versatile attacking option who could thrive under Spalletti's guidance, should the current Italy coach take the reins at the Allianz Stadium.
The 26-year-old, currently at RB Leipzig, previously flourished under Spalletti during their title-winning campaign at Napoli in 2022-23, establishing himself as a crucial squad player with 6 goals in 36 Serie A appearances that season. With Spalletti widely tipped to replace Massimiliano Allegri—or whoever is in charge—after the 2026 World Cup, Juventus are aiming to reunite the duo.
Elmas's Journey Since Leaving Napoli
Elmas departed Naples in the summer of 2023, joining Bundesliga side RB Leipzig in a deal worth around €25 million. In Germany, he has continued to demonstrate his technical ability and tactical intelligence, contributing 12 goals and 10 assists across all competitions in his three seasons. However, the allure of returning to Italy, where he has family roots and fond memories, could prove decisive.
Previously, Elmas spent four productive years at Napoli, making over 140 appearances and winning the Coppa Italia in 2020 before the Scudetto triumph under Spalletti. His ability to play as an attacking midfielder, winger, or even a deeper central role makes him an attractive prospect for a Juventus side seeking midfield reinforcements.
The Spalletti Factor
Luciano Spalletti's future is the subject of intense speculation. Although currently tasked with managing the Italian national team, his contract runs until after the 2026 World Cup—which Italy did not qualify for—and he is rumored to be considering a return to club management. Juventus have long admired Spalletti's tactical acumen, and his Napoli side's style of play, built on high pressure and fluid attacking movements, could be a template he would bring to Turin.
"Eljif is a player who understands the game the way I like it," Spalletti once remarked. "He is tactically disciplined but with creativity."
Such endorsement makes a potential reunion a compelling narrative for both club and player.
What Elmas Would Bring to Juventus
Juventus have struggled for creativity from midfield in recent seasons, and Elmas's versatility could provide a solution. He can operate in a 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1, or even a 3-4-2-1, offering Spalletti flexibility. His dribbling, vision, and knack for arriving late in the box would complement the squad, potentially easing the creative burden on players like Kenan Yildiz.
Financially, the deal could be structured as a loan with an obligation to buy, similar to previous Juventus market moves. Leipzig are reportedly open to selling at around €30m, a figure that Juventus could manage through player sales.
Key Takeaways
- Juventus are targeting Eljif Elmas as a midfield reinforcement, with the potential return of Luciano Spalletti as head coach driving interest.
- Elmas previously won the Serie A title under Spalletti at Napoli in 2022-23, making him an ideal fit for the proposed tactical setup.
- The 26-year-old North Macedonian is currently at RB Leipzig, where he has maintained consistent form over three seasons.
- Spalletti's future after the 2026 World Cup remains uncertain, but he is strongly linked with taking over at Juventus.
- Elmas's versatility across multiple positions could address Juventus' need for a dynamic playmaker.
Quick Facts
Player: Eljif Elmas (26, North Macedonia)
Current Club: RB Leipzig
Previous Club (Serie A): Napoli
Serie A Stats (2022-23 under Spalletti): 36 appearance, 6 goals
Transfer Rumour Source: Football Italia
Potential Fee: Around €30m
