Juventus aims to sign new USMNT talent

One of Italy and Europe's most iconic clubs is keeping an eye on the growing talent pool coming out of the United States. In recent years, more and more US Men's National Team players have burst into some of the top leagues around the world-especially Serie A. That trend is led by none other than Juventus itself after signing USMNT standouts Weston McKennie and Tim Weah in recent years.

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Now, though, the Bianconeri have set their sights on more-recent USMNT talents such as Ricardo Pepi and Malik Tillman. Both young men have caught the eye of the club in recent international appearances and Juventus seem eager to further dip into the American pool. Still, they are not the only ones keeping up with them: other European titans such as Inter Milan and Barcelona have also been keeping tabs on these players.

Interest by Juventus in Ricardo Pepi and Malik Tillman

Ricardo Pepi, 21-year-old PSV Eindhoven forward, is one of the emerging faces of American soccer. Juventus had first scouted Pepi back in 2021 when he was part of the FC Dallas academy. He has since picked up some useful European experience playing soccer, and his name cropped up once more on Juventus' radar following the recent US-Canada match when he appeared as a second-half substitute. The talented fullback has yet to nail down a starting position with PSV, but at such a young and tender age, his potential is enticing enough to make him a target worth considering as Juventus look to the future.

Along with Pepi, Juventus is also tracking Malik Tillman, the 21-year-old USMNT player who signed a permanent deal at PSV after a loan period from Bayern Munich. The versatility between forward and midfield from Tillman has caught Juventus scouts impressed. He played 62 minutes against Canada before being subbed off, showing his adaptability and skills in different roles on the field. Juventus want to strengthen their squad depth, and Tillman's profile matches that of a multi-talented player capable of adding value to the team.

Jonathan David: The Primary Target

While Pepi and Tillman are on top of the list, Juventus' primary target seems to be Lille's Jonathan David. The 24-year-old Canadian forward has become a great interest for the biggest clubs in Europe as many of them are in a thorough race against the clock to secure his signature, including Juventus, Inter Milan, and Barcelona. David had been on point in Canada's 2-1 win over USMNT, scoring but also assisting.

His contract runs until 2025, and Juventus sees an opportunity to nip in for David ahead of other European giants. His sterling display in Kansas City made Juventus even keener to take him to Turin, where he is expected to be the vital cog of their attack.

Juventus Expansion Strategy in American Market

It is no accident that American players are increasingly showing up in Serie A. Juventus, along with other major Italian clubs, has begun embracing the U.S. market for its talent and global visibility.

The fact that Juventus scouts were present at the US-Canada match in Kansas City underlines the fact that the club is very keen on leveraging American talent. While Pepi and Tillman may not be the biggest names at this point in time, their future potential is undeniable, with Juventus also hugely well-placed to take full advantage of such talents should the opportunity present itself.

What Does the Future Hold?

For Juventus, the road map seems crystal clear: continuing scouting and investing in youngsters. Pepi and Tillman are part of this long-term project, and their performances during the UEFA Champions League with PSV could be the final piece that might convince the Italian club to act. Meanwhile, Juventus hope that David will join an overhauled attack which should be competitive both in Serie A and in Europe.

Interest in American players is a growing trend across Serie A as one Italian team after another realizes the value of supplementing their rosters with young U.S. talent. Should Juventus lock up Pepi, Tillman, or maybe even Jonathan David, it would only further deepen ties between Italian soccer and the United States that benefit both the game and commerce.