Juventus remain determined to bring Sandro Tonali back to Italy next summer, but with midfield options currently stretched thin, the Bianconeri are evaluating West Ham United’s Guido Rodríguez as a potential short-term solution during the January transfer window.
Head coach Luciano Spalletti has been forced to adapt his midfield due to a lack of depth. Teun Koopmeiners and Weston McKennie have both been used in alternative roles, leaving Manuel Locatelli and Khéphren Thuram as the only consistent options in the double pivot. Fabio Miretti has provided cover, but Juventus’ sporting directors Damien Comolli and Marco Ottolini are now exploring low-cost reinforcements.
Rodríguez has recently surfaced as a realistic candidate. The 31-year-old Argentina international has seen his role diminished at West Ham following the appointment of Nuno Espírito Santo, often finding himself on the bench.
With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, West Ham could be open to selling the 2022 World Cup winner for a reduced fee. Juventus, however, are proceeding cautiously and have yet to submit a formal offer, reportedly waiting to see if alternative opportunities arise. Rodríguez, for his part, is said to be open to a move to Turin.
Italian journalist Luca Marchetti addressed the situation during an appearance on Sky Sport, confirming that talks have slowed but remain very much alive.
“Juventus need a midfielder right now, even if it’s only for squad depth,” Marchetti said.
“Guido Rodríguez is one of the names being discussed. The negotiation is currently stalled, but if Juventus decide to move forward, the deal could be closed quickly. The club is looking for someone who can cover an emergency during this transfer window.”
While Rodríguez would represent a temporary fix, Juventus’ primary objective remains Sandro Tonali. The club hopes to make a major investment in June to bring the Newcastle United midfielder back to Serie A after three seasons in England.
Newcastle signed Tonali from AC Milan in 2023 for around €70 million, and reports suggest the Premier League club would demand at least €100 million to part ways with a player considered central to Eddie Howe’s system.
For now, Juventus must balance immediate needs with long-term ambition as they weigh whether Rodríguez is the right solution to stabilize their midfield until the summer.
