Arsenal are reportedly reigniting their interest in Serbian striker Dusan Vlahovic, who currently plays for Juventus, ahead of the January transfer window.
This move comes two years after Vlahovic rejected Arsenal in favour of a transfer to Juventus from Fiorentina in January 2022 for a fee of €80million. At the time, Arsenal had shown strong interest but did not meet the asking price.
Vlahovic’s performance at Juventus have not met expectations, with just 14 goals in 42 games last season and a modest tally of two goals in the current season. This underperformance, coupled with Juventus’s financial struggles and absence of European football revenue, has led to speculation that the club might be open to selling him for a reduced fee of around £52million. Arsenal, on the other hand, are said to be willing to pay around £35million (TV Play – Italy). He’s valued at €60million on transfermarkt.
A potential factor in negotiations could be Juventus’s interest in Arsenal’s Charlie Patino. This interest might present an opportunity for Arsenal to negotiate a more favorable deal for Vlahovic. Arsenal’s determination to sign a new striker is driven by their ambition to keep pace with Liverpool and Manchester City in the Premier League title race.
His struggle at Juventus is attributed in part to the team’s tactics under manager Max Allegri, which reportedly have not been conducive to Vlahovic’s playing style. Given Arteta’s previous interest, it’s likely the manager would have a plan for how to maximise the Serbian’s potential. He’s only just about to turn 24 and already has huge physical attributes, though his technical game is a bit limited.
In summary, Arsenal’s renewed interest in Dusan Vlahovic presents an intriguing transfer possibility, balancing the striker’s proven talent with his recent struggles at Juventus and the financial realities of both clubs. The potential deal is complex, involving considerations of transfer fees, player performance, and the strategic needs of both Arsenal and Juventus. But it’s rare in January that you can get a chance to sign a quality striker and in Vlahovic Arsenal may have an opportunity.