Carnevali Lays Foundations for New Era
In a move that signals a clear shift in recruitment philosophy, Juventus are set to overhaul their scouting operations under newly-appointed director Giovanni Carnevali. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the experienced executive has made it a personal priority to restore the club's once-vaunted talent identification network following the short and unremarkable stint of Damien Comolli.
Carnevali, who built a reputation for shrewd dealings at Sassuolo, is dispatching scouts to the World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada with a dual mandate: to monitor established targets and to unearth emerging gems. This proactive approach contrasts sharply with the more reactive model seen in recent transfer windows and is expected to align closely with the vision of head coach Luciano Spalletti.
“Carnevali wants to bring back the culture of scouting that made Juventus a reference point in Europe,” a source close to the club told Gazzetta.
Brahim Diaz: The Creative Spark Spalletti Craves
Chief among the profiles under examination is Brahim Diaz of Real Madrid. The 26-year-old attacking midfielder, currently with Morocco at the World Cup, fits the precise tactical need identified by Spalletti: a player capable of operating between the lines and injecting unpredictability into the final third.
Despite flashes of brilliance at the Santiago Bernabéu, including a crucial goal in the La Liga run-in, Diaz faces an uncertain future in the Spanish capital. Madrid’s crowded midfield options mean regular starts are far from guaranteed, and the player is believed to be open to a new challenge. Juventus, meanwhile, are eager to inject a more dynamic and technically refined dimension to an attack that at times struggled to break down deep blocks in Serie A.
Diaz’s versatility—he can play as a number ten, on either flank or even in a deeper role—makes him particularly attractive. Spalletti sees him as a potential heir to the creative mantle once held by Paulo Dybala, but with a different athletic profile ideally suited to the high-tempo, vertical style the coach is implementing in Turin.
Informal Talks Set for World Cup Window
Juventus intend to use the global gathering not merely as a scouting opportunity but as a discreet forum for opening dialogue. With Diaz’s representatives expected to be present in North America, the Bianconeri have prepared the ground for informal discussions. The aim is to gauge the player’s enthusiasm for the project and establish a framework ahead of more formal negotiations once the tournament concludes.
This timing is deliberate. By initiating contact during the World Cup, Juventus hope to steal a march on other suitors, which reportedly include several Premier League clubs. However, the operation will not be straightforward. Real Madrid are not under immediate financial pressure to sell, and Diaz’s contract runs until 2027. Much could depend on the player’s own desire for a leading role, something Juventus are prepared to offer.
Additionally, Carnevali’s emphasis on scouting efficiency means data and live analysis from the tournament will heavily inform any decision. The director is known for a methodical, evidence-based approach, and the club will not commit without the full backing of their revamped analytics department.
Key Takeaways
- Giovanni Carnevali is spearheading a major restructure of Juventus' scouting department, aiming to return to a proactive recruitment model.
- Brahim Diaz has been identified by Luciano Spalletti as a priority signing to add creativity and unpredictability to Juventus' attack.
- Representatives from the club will conduct informal talks with Diaz’s camp during the World Cup to explore a potential summer transfer.
- Real Madrid’s crowded squad and Diaz’s desire for consistent playing time could facilitate a deal, though competition from Premier League clubs is expected.
- The success of this pursuit will serve as an early test of Carnevali’s influence and the effectiveness of the new scouting direction.
Quick Facts
Target: Brahim Diaz (Real Madrid/Morocco)
Age: 26
Position: Attacking Midfielder / Winger
Contract Expires: 2027
Juventus Coach: Luciano Spalletti
Competition: Serie A, World Cup 2026
New Director: Giovanni Carnevali