The present invention concerns a device (1) for applying adhesive to cores for a log comprising moving means (3) configured to cause at least one core (5) to advance along a feed direction (A) and dispensing means (7) configured for dispensing an amount of adhesive (9) on said core (5).According to the invention such dispensing means (7) are moveable along an application direction (B) substantially orthogonal to the feed direction (A) and are configured to selectively dispense said amount of adhesive (9) along portions (11) of the core (5) during movement along said application direction (B).