January is always an important month in the season -- on and off the field. While Serie A returns after the winter break, clubs have the chance to add to their squads in the transfer window.
Getting it right this month could be the difference between a title challenge or falling away, while clubs at the other end of the table will desperately seek improvements to retain their Serie A status.
As for Juventus, here's a look at what lies in store for Massimiliano Allegri's men ...
What do the champions need this month?
Juventus have always had a wonderfully balanced squad with no obvious gaps that need to be filled. The strength in depth has been an issue for some time, as is the lack of varied talent. However, since it's highly unlikely that the winter market will possess the diamonds needed to improve the overall quality of the squad, it can instead be used to better certain positions.
Defensively, Juventus have a sturdy back line, but on the right side, manager Allegri is too dependent on Stephan Lichtsteiner and could do with an alternative. A versatile full-back who could play on either flank would be ideal, but Juventus director general Beppe Marotta may instead opt for a centre-back, instead. He is yet to decide.
However, it is the attack that is in genuine need of help. With Fernando Llorente used as a tactical sacrifice, Arturo Vidal not at his best and Paul Pogba concerned with providing the balance, creativity can be lacking. Carlos Tevez is too important for the side and others must be brought in to lift the burden and allow further freedom for teammates.
Roberto Pereyra may be the versatile midfielder who can manage several roles with quick feet and raw talent, but he doesn't have the quality to truly influence Juve's attacking play.
Talking targets -- who's in their sights?
Martin Montoya: The Barcelona full-back would certainly be an excellent addition to the squad even if he's an expensive option. However, he's entirely different to Lichtsteiner in the sense that he's a defender first and foremost and cannot offer the forward thrusts the Swiss maestro can. Extremely intelligent, Montoya boasts vision and tactical understanding, knowing exactly where to position himself to ensure safety.
Rolando: A terribly slow player who failed to make an impact during his time with both Napoli and Inter Milan. Not of the calibre required at Juve.
Diego Perotti: Statistically not the most impressive player, and his versatility means that he's not an expert in one particular role. Having played in four positions for Genoa this season, Perotti understands the attacking game and enjoys exploiting the wide areas. However, his best performances have come when playing through the middle, such as in the match against Palermo when he dribbled to devastating effect. Yet one must ask: Is he really at Juve's level?
Xherdan Shaqiri: Another player who is better on the wings, but Shaqiri has an extraordinary footballing brain and strength required to shirk off defenders and continue in his path. A player who is accurate with his shot, Shaqiri is an excellent passer of the ball, yet nothing is as impressive as his burst of acceleration, maintaining precision despite the overwhelming speed of his feet -- a quality that will destroy Italian defences.
What do you expect Allegri to do?
During winter, it's rare to grab a gem and Juventus seem too concerned with buying mediocre alternatives for certain positions when it would be better to save money and wait to buy diamonds in the summer. Perotti and Rolando of Porto are not at the level required at Juve nor will they offer anything more than the odd appearance in which they may or may not succeed as part of the unit.
Rolando will probably be brought in simply because he's played in Serie A before, even if he falls far below Montoya in terms of ability. As for Perotti, he is yet another inconsistent midfielder who has yet to prove he's better than what the Bianconeri already have or need.
Unless a player is worth the negotiation, then it's better not to engage in the first place. This is the time for management to get their ducks in row for the summer and to start making the necessary moves to secure the ideal players. If they can manage a good acquisition in the next few weeks, then so be it, but whoever arrives must be able to add to the squad.
Out the exit door
Juventus sold several of their deadwood players in summer and with a relatively small squad available despite the heavy schedule, it's unlikely many will be shown the door come this winter transfer market.
Sebastian Giovinco is the only man who may depart, as he has only six months left on his contract. Juventus would love to make some money from his sale, but logic dictates that he's better off leaving in summer as only then will he have the complete freedom to take charge of his future.
Giovinco will always be labelled as the player with so much unfulfilled potential. It has been made abundantly clear that he boasts talent and superb vision, yet at Juventus it appears the weight of the shirt is just too heavy for the "Atomic Ant." The challenges are harder, the demands are higher and the competition is vicious. It's time to accept that in the black and white side of Turin, Giovinco's mesmeric brand of football may be enjoyable, but rarely does it help produce a final result.
Fiorentina have stated he's too expensive. He is now but he won't be in summer when he can negotiate better. Napoli have also discussed his arrival but the true extent of their interest is unknown.
Likely arrivals
It's unlikely that any more than two players will arrive. A defender, most likely Rolando, may be brought in, but whether or not the attacking department will be bolstered depends both on Giovinco and the negotiations surrounding intended targets.