Jeff Ekhator Joins Juventus From Genoa On Permanent Deal For USD 16 Million

Juventus have confirmed the signing of Jeff Ekhator from Genoa, paying a reported 16m plus bonuses for the winger. The 19-year-old Italy international signs a contract running until 2031 and becomes the first arrival under new Juventus director Giovanni Carnevali, joining Luciano Spalletti’s squad ahead of the 2026-27 Serie A campaign.

Ekhator leaves Genoa after 57 appearances in all competitions, although only 16 of those were starts, contributing five goals and one assist. Alongside new Juventus team-mate Kenan Yildiz, who has 71 league outings, Ekhator’s 54 Serie A matches across the last two seasons make both the youngest players to reach 50.

The forward recently broke into Italy’s senior side, earning a first cap in a friendly against Greece. Interim coach Silvio Baldini selected Ekhator last month, and the youngster created the only goal, supplying Francesco Pio Esposito for a 1-0 victory that strengthened claims for regular international involvement.

Ekhator arrives as Juventus’ third incoming player of the current window, following Lois Openda and Jeremie Boga, whose loan spells were both turned into permanent transfers after last season. The deal continues a reshaping of the attack under Carnevali and Spalletti as Juventus adjust their squad for future campaigns.

Giorgio Chiellini has already stated that striker Dusan Vlahovic will depart Juventus on a free transfer this summer, leaving a major gap in attack. Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Newcastle United, Barcelona and Arsenal are all reported to be monitoring Vlahovic, who has scored 50 Serie A goals for Juventus.

With Vlahovic expected to move and Openda and Boga secured long term, Juventus now add another young attacking option in Ekhator. The long contract, Genoa experience and early international exposure suggest Juventus view Ekhator as a key part of their medium-term rebuild.