Daniele Longo
Arsenal are reportedly in talks to secure the services of a long term striker target this January.
Serbian striker, Dusan Vlahovic, currently with Juventus, has been on Arsenal’s radar for years and could present a significant mid-season boost for the Gunners.
Juventus appear open to parting ways with Vlahovic, primarily to shed his considerable £350,000-a-week wages. This move would give the Italian club the financial flexibility needed to pursue their target, Kolo Muani, who they aim to lure from PSG.
For Arsenal, this is a prime opportunity to address their need for attacking reinforcements without committing to a major long-term outlay upfront. That is, if Juventus are open to some kind of loan deal, as is expected.
Turning 25 later this month, Vlahovic remains a young player with proven goalscoring instincts. While his overall contributions to build-up play have occasionally been questioned, his effectiveness inside the box and his aerial presence are undeniable. In a team that creates a high volume of crossing opportunities, his attributes could prove decisive.
The potential move aligns with Arsenal’s stated intention to make additions during this window. According to ConMarbleHalls, internal discussions are well underway regarding Vlahovic, with the club “100% looking to sign a player or players” in January. Italian journalist, Daniele Longo has reiterated Arsenal’s interest.
Any permanent deal would be expensive, given the Serbian’s wage and his valuation of around £50million (transfermarkt). Arsenal would clearly prefer to leave the door ajar to a potential better striker in the summer, thus a loan with option rather than obligation, would be favourable.
Given Mikel Arteta’s preference for versatility and attacking fluidity, the addition of a physical striker like Vlahovic could provide tactical flexibility and cover for Gabriel Jesus, whose absence earlier in the season highlighted the need for depth in the striker position.
This would not be the first time Arsenal have shown interest in Vlahovic, with the club previously linked to the forward during his Fiorentina days. Should this deal materialise, it would be a statement of intent from Arsenal, underlining their commitment to competing on all fronts as the season enters its crucial stages.
Whether as a short-term fix or a long-term solution, Vlahovic could play a pivotal role in Arsenal’s aspirations for silverware and Champions League success this season.