For weeks, Juventus have been in the market for a forward who can add speed, directness, and goals. On Saturday, that search reached a decisive conclusion as the Italian giants closed a deal for Loïs Openda from RB Leipzig. According to Fabrizio Romano, the 24-year-old Belgian striker has been given the green light to travel to Italy, with a move now considered a done deal.
The agreement is structured as an initial loan with a straightforward obligation to buy, pushing the total cost slightly above €40 million. For Juventus, who have been carefully balancing their finances with squad reinforcements, the structure provides both flexibility and certainty.
From Leipzig to Turin: Openda’s Next Step
Openda has only been at RB Leipzig for a year, joining from Lens in 2023 for around €38 million. He quickly adapted to German football, scoring 24 goals across all competitions last season, including standout performances in both the Bundesliga and the Champions League.
But despite his impact, Leipzig were willing to consider an exit once Juventus arrived with a structured offer that covered their valuation. Openda’s mix of pace, pressing, and sharp movement behind defenses fits perfectly into the style Juventus are shaping under Thiago Motta, who values vertical play and fast transitions.
At just 24, Openda is also seen as a forward with significant room to grow, particularly in a league that has historically been a proving ground for strikers.
Kolo Muani Talks Collapse
Juventus had been exploring multiple options in recent weeks, with Randal Kolo Muani also high on the shortlist. Negotiations, however, hit obstacles as Eintracht Frankfurt and Paris Saint-Germain showed resistance to a move. With progress stalling, Juve quickly pivoted back to Openda — a player who had already been scouted extensively by the club’s recruitment team.
The collapse of the Kolo Muani deal paved the way for Juventus to move decisively, ensuring they didn’t miss out on strengthening their attack before the transfer window’s final stretch.
Double Reinforcement: Zhegrova Joins the Attack
Openda will not arrive alone. Juventus have also secured Edon Zhegrova, the Kosovo international winger from Lille. Zhegrova brings flair and creativity from the flanks, giving Motta another tool in the final third.
The double addition of Openda and Zhegrova signals a clear intent: Juventus want to re-establish themselves not just as a defensively solid side but also as one capable of stretching opponents and punishing mistakes.
Why Openda Fits Juventus’ Needs
Juventus’ attack last season relied heavily on Dusan Vlahovic and Federico Chiesa, both of whom carried the scoring burden in key matches. But inconsistency, injuries, and lack of depth often left the side short in decisive moments.
Openda’s arrival addresses multiple gaps: Pace in transition – his speed allows Juventus to counter more effectively. Versatility – while naturally a central striker, he can drift wide and link play. Pressing intensity – Openda’s energy suits Motta’s demand for high work rate.
Numbers also back his profile: Openda averaged 0.65 goals per 90 minutes in the Bundesliga last season, placing him among the top finishers in Germany.
For Juventus, this is not just about signing a striker; it’s about signaling a new era. After years of financial caution and tactical uncertainty, the club appears to be taking bold steps under Thiago Motta’s leadership.
With Openda set to lead the line and Zhegrova adding creativity, Juventus supporters can feel a sense of optimism ahead of the new season. The €40m investment is significant, but if Openda reproduces his Bundesliga form in Serie A, it could prove to be one of the most important signings in recent years for the Turin club.
