Arsenal are holding discussions at Emirates Stadium about signing a striker in January but interest in the Juventus ace Dusan Vlahovic is being led by the Serbia star’s agent.
That is according to Ben Jacobs, who reports that Arsenal have a historic interest in possibly targeting Vlahovic. But it is his agent, Ristic, who is currently pushing a deal for the Juventus forward to switch in January. It is still possible that Mikel Arteta green lights a move, though.
Arteta is minded to improve his attacking options in the winter window. But Arsenal may be hamstrung in what they can afford after a lavish off-season spending spree. So, the Spaniard might have to trust Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah to deliver them the goals that win titles.
Ristic is driving the interest in Vlahovic’s transfer to Arsenal
Financial restraints are likely to see Arsenal have a somewhat quiet January before exploring their main targets next summer. But Ristic is driving the interest in Vlahovic leaving Juventus for Emirates Stadium this winter. Yet Jacobs’ claims contradict recent reports about the deal.
According to Football Transfers, Arteta would still jump at a chance to sign Vlahovic after the striker snubbed Arsenal to join Juventus in January 2022. The Gunners coach remains a big fan of the 23-year-old. It even claimed Arteta viewed Vlahovic as Arsenal’s top striker target.
Vlahovic turned Arsenal down in favour of a £58.5m, rising up to £66.5m, switch to Juventus from ACF Fiorentina. But Football Transfers claimed that Arteta still wants to sign the 24-cap Serbian as he is still young. The Gunners also like the price that the Bianconeri could ask for.
Juventus are hopeful of Vlahovic agreeing to a new contract
Reports by TEAMtalk have suggested that Juventus could be persuaded to accept £50m for Vlahovic. However, the striker whom Bianconeri hero Alessio Tacchinardi calls ‘extraordinary’ is happier at the Allianz Stadium this term, per 90min, and might even agree a new contract.
90min notes that Juventus are hopeful of seeing Vlahovic extend his contract and reject any interest from Arsenal in a transfer. It also cites interest from Manchester United and Bayern Munich. But Vlahovic is minded to stay in Turin having enjoyed a, somewhat, strong season.
Vlahovic started the term with four goals in his first four Serie A appearances, along with an assist. Yet he has failed to find the back of the net since through six games. The striker also missed two matches with a back injury. He sits on a goal every 145 minutes so far this term.
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