# Juventus squad restructuring and transfer activity

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/juventus-squad-restructuring-and-transfer-activity
> Updated: 2026-08-20T14:45:00.000Z. Sources: 33. Developments: 2.

Juventus is undergoing a significant squad overhaul ahead of the new Serie A season to address tactical needs and financial pressures. A key development in this restructuring is the official announcement of the mutual termination of midfielder Arthur Melo’s contract. Originally set to run until June 2027, this move is intended to reduce the wage bill and free up salary space for new acquisitions.

The termination of the 30-year-old Brazilian’s contract is expected to have a negative financial impact of approximately €6 million on the club’s accounts. Despite becoming a free agent, Grêmio has reportedly decided not to pursue a permanent signing of Arthur Melo due to financial constraints.

To complete the roster under manager Luciano Spalletti, the club continues to pursue midfielder Franck Kessié and striker Joshua Zirkzee, with Manchester United reportedly open to a loan deal for the latter. Defensive reinforcements remain a priority, specifically for the left-back position, with interest noted in players such as Emerson Royal. The goalkeeper situation remains fluid involving potential discussions regarding Mattia Perin’s move to Palermo, and interest in Juan Musso.

Further complicating the squad management, Nico Gonzalez has expressed a desire to leave the club, with Atletico Madrid identified as a preferred destination. Additionally, Jonathan David has emerged as a subject of transfer speculation as management continues to balance the arrival of new talent with the necessity of offloading players to maintain financial stability.

## Claims

- Juventus is monitoring Hugo Bueno as a target for the left defensive position. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Juventus is pursuing a contract termination with Arthur to reduce the wage bill. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Selling Teun Koopmeiners could facilitate the signing of Franck Kessie. (single source)
- The sale of Jonathan David could allow Juventus to pursue Joshua Zirkzee. (single source)
- Goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio is being tracked by Marseille and Monza. (single source)
- Teun Koopmeiners has a market valuation of approximately 25 million euros. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-08-20: Juventus terminates Arthur Melo's contract amid squad overhaul

Juventus has terminated Arthur Melo's contract by mutual agreement, leaving the midfielder a free agent. The club is now pivoting to new targets like Franck Kessié and Joshua Zirkzee to reshape its squad.

33 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/juventus-targets-hugo-bueno-and-franck-kessie-amid-squad-restructuring

### 2026-08-06: Juventus faces key squad gaps as transfer window closes

Juventus, with a 28‑player squad, is addressing gaps in goalkeeping, defense and midfield as the transfer deadline nears, after recent signings and several departures.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/juventus-faces-key-squad-gaps-as-transfer-window-closes

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Cite as: Juventus squad restructuring and transfer activity. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/juventus-squad-restructuring-and-transfer-activity