The American midfielder looks set to be rewarded with a new contract as his current deal approaches expiration
Weston McKennie’s transformation into one of Serie A‘s most productive midfielders has prompted Juventus to accelerate contract renewal discussions before his current deal expires in June.
The American international recently earned the club’s Player of the Month award for January after netting three goals across seven appearances, capping a remarkable run of form that’s made him indispensable to manager Luciano Spalletti.
Director Marco Ottolini confirmed the club’s intentions to secure McKennie’s future, praising both his versatility and production during ongoing negotiations.
“We are very happy with McKennie; he is doing well. We are in negotiations over a new contract,” Ottolini said. “He’s a player of great quality and can play many roles well. His numbers are impressive.”
Those numbers tell a compelling story. Since Spalletti assumed control of Juventus on October 30, 2025, McKennie has scored seven goals across all competitions, more than any other Serie A midfielder during that span.
Contract uncertainty attracts outside interest
McKennie’s impending free agency hasn’t gone unnoticed around Italy. Serie A rivals are monitoring his situation closely, aware that a player of his current calibre could become available without a transfer fee this summer.
The likes of Atlético Madrid and Inter Milan are said to be monitoring McKennie’s situation, ready to pounce should he depart on a free transfer.
That external pressure adds urgency to Juventus‘ renewal efforts, though both sides appear motivated to reach an agreement.
The timing of these negotiations coincides with a crucial stretch of Juventus‘ season. They face Inter on Saturday in a match that could significantly impact the title race.
Inter currently sit atop the Serie A table, while Juventus trail in the chase for second place. McKennie’s recent form makes him a likely starter in that high-stakes encounter.
The contract talks also carry significance beyond club football. McKennie enters the 2026 World Cup year performing at the highest level of his career, positioning himself as a potential leader for Mauricio Pochettino’s United States men’s national team.
With Christian Pulisic managing physical issues and Giovanni Reyna struggling for consistent impact, McKennie could emerge as the team’s undisputed centerpiece.
Pochettino might deploy McKennie in a more advanced role to capitalize on his current goalscoring form. Pairing him in attack alongside Folarin Balogun and Malik Tillman would give the USMNT a different dimension, utilizing McKennie’s ability to arrive late in the box and finish chances.
McKennie’s January performance showcased exactly why both Juventus and the national team value him so highly.