Juventus eye Leverkusen striker Patrik Schick as January reinforcements loom

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Serie A giants consider Schick a key target, seven years after a failed transfer to Turin.

In 2016, Schick seemed destined to join Juventus from Sampdoria, only for the deal to collapse after he failed his medical.

The Czech international instead moved to Roma before spells at RB Leipzig and eventually Bayer Leverkusen, where he has played since 2020.

This season, Schick has struggled to secure consistent minutes at Leverkusen. With Victor Boniface leading the line, Schick has made just five starts in the 2024/25 campaign. Juventus reportedly see an opportunity to capitalise on his reduced role, potentially offering him a fresh challenge in Turin.

However, convincing Leverkusen to part with the striker mid-season pose challenges. Schick remains a vital backup option for the Bundesliga side, especially in their push for domestic and European success.

A loan move, reportedly preferred by Juventus, may not appeal to Leverkusen. An outright purchase, potentially structured with performance-related add-ons, is another possibility, though Leverkusen are unlikely to entertain offers lightly given Schick's contract runs until 2027.

Meanwhile, Leverkusen also face uncertainty around head coach Xabi Alonso. Despite being contracted until 2026, Alonso has been strongly linked with a return to Real Madrid. Should Alonso leave, the German champions are preparing a contingency plan.

Reports suggested Stuttgart's Sebastian Hoeness and Germany assistant Sandro Wagner were early candidates to succeed Alonso. Additionally, Brighton & Hove Albion assistant Fabian Hurzeler and former Denmark coach Kasper Hjulmand have entered the fray as potential replacements.

Leverkusen's proactive approach has highlighted their determination to maintain stability amid speculation, whether in the dugout or on the pitch.

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