3 Players Juventus need to sign this summer
Despite all but wrapping up an 8th successive Serie A title, Juventus have once again failed to claim the Champions League title that repeatedly eludes them. Exiting limply to Ajax, with an uninspiring 1-2 home defeat, a game in which they looked bereft of ideas and creativity, they barely troubled the Ajax goal and were thoroughly outplayed. Juve once again showed their dependency on crosses and inability to create through the middle, a problem that has made them far too predictable.
With the exception of Pjanic, none of Juve's midfielders are particularly creative. In fact, Pjanic's 2.3 key passes per game, makes him the only Juventus midfielder to average over 1 key pass, with Matuidi, Can, Bentancur and Khedira averaging 0.6, 0.5, 0.9 and 0.4 respectively.
Juventus also have a problem with age, with key members of the squad, like Ronaldo and Chiellini, both 34. Juventus have the third oldest squad in Serie A, with an average age of 27.9, so any summer investment should be looking to bring that age down.
In terms of depth, Juve certainly need reinforcements at the back. With Martín Cáceres only on loan, Juve only have 3 permanent centre backs on their books. Chiellini who is 34, Bonucci, 31 and Rugani, 24. Ideally, Juve will be looking to add a promising young centre back to their ranks.
#3 Rúben Dias
At just 21, Rúben Dias has already made 74 appearances for Benfica, including 44 this season. He will both help with the age of the squad, while adding much-needed depth. With so many games under his belt, Dias has experience beyond his years, making him ready to step in when needed.
Dias has played 28 of 29 league games this season, helping them to the top of the table. The Benfica youth academy graduate has also helped his side to the Europa League quarterfinals. Despite his tender age, Dias has already represented the Portuguese national team 9 times.
Dias would likely start as a backup player, before being slowly phased into the side, as Chiellini's likely replacement. Dias would likely partner Bonucci, taking the role as the more defensive minded one of the two, allowing Bonucci to play out from the back.
While heavily linked with Dias, Juve will reportedly have to do battle with Manchester United over the young defender's signature..