Ekhator, Juventus' hope: return date and role ahead
After months out injured, Juventus' striker could become the solution sought by Spalletti. His first chance will come between November and December.
Juventus continues to search for solutions in attack. Over the first six Serie A matches, only one goal has come from a recognised centre-forward, painting an unclear picture of a department falling short of expectations. In this context, the name of Jeff Ekhator is back in focus, signed from Genoa during the summer for 18 million euros. The young Under 21 international has been sidelined by injury since the early stages: a knock sustained in a pre-season friendly and subsequently a medium-grade semitendinosus muscle strain kept him away from the pitch. His return is expected between late October and early November.
The real news is Spalletti's concrete interest. The coach has long been seeking a centre-forward with physical presence and specific characteristics, and Ekhator's profile fits exactly that bill. For the manager, he would represent a genuine opportunity to have a pure number 9 during the most congested period of the calendar. The class of 2006 prospect will therefore have the chance to prove himself between November and December, aiming to gain minutes and climb the hierarchy.
Juventus is evaluating several scenarios for January. One involves sending the young striker out on loan to allow him to accumulate playing time consistently, creating space for another attacking signing. It will be Ekhator's performances in the coming weeks that will chart the course: his displays will largely determine the club's January market decisions.