Juventus consider Retegui, Balogun and Raimondo as Woltemade alternatives

Juventus are exploring alternatives to Germany forward Nick Woltemade for the summer transfer window, little more than a month after he joined the Italian club on loan from Newcastle.

The 24-year-old arrived at Juventus in the final hours of the transfer window and is contracted to remain with the club until the end of the season. However, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, his future is already being assessed as the club considers other options to strengthen its attack.

Woltemade’s recent performance for Germany has added to concerns in Turin. During the match against Serbia, he missed a clear opportunity from close range with about half an hour remaining.

With the goal unoccupied, Woltemade’s effort went over the crossbar. The miss attracted widespread criticism in the German press and, La Gazzetta dello Sport reports, increased the doubts surrounding the forward at Juventus.

The newspaper says Juventus expect Woltemade’s loan to conclude in June as planned. The club are therefore examining three possible alternatives for next season.

Juventus draw up three-man shortlist

Mateo Retegui is one of the players under consideration. The striker, formerly of Atalanta, currently plays for Saudi Pro League side Al Qadsiah.

Another option is Folarin Balogun, the Monaco forward and former Arsenal player. The United States international is also being considered as Juventus look at ways to reinforce their attacking options.

The third name on the list is Antonio Raimondo. He has scored four goals in the league this season and is currently playing for Frosinone on loan from Bologna.

Woltemade has made four appearances for Juventus since his move and has scored once.

At international level, he has played 14 matches for Germany and has scored four goals. His latest involvement for the national team came under scrutiny after the missed chance against Serbia, while Juventus continue to consider their plans for the forward beyond the current campaign.

The German joined Newcastle before moving to Juventus on a temporary basis, with his current loan agreement due to run until June. The Italian club’s interest in Retegui, Balogun and Raimondo indicates that its recruitment planning is already focused on the possibility of needing another attacking option once the season ends.