Arsenal could finally land Dusan Vlahovic, a long-standing target of Mikel Arteta, without paying a transfer fee after the Serbian striker failed to agree a new deal with Juventus. The 26-year-old will become a free agent this summer, according to reports from Gazzetta dello Sport, after spending over four years in Turin.
Failed Contract Talks
Vlahovic and Juventus were unable to bridge the gap in salary expectations, leading to their separation. The striker initially made his name at Fiorentina, scoring 41 goals in a season and a half, which prompted Juventus to sign him for £66 million in January 2022. Arsenal had been heavily linked with Vlahovic at the time, but Sky Sports reported that the hefty transfer fee put them off. Additionally, Vlahovic preferred a Champions League club, and Juventus were regulars in the competition while Arsenal had not qualified for four seasons.
Arsenal's Current Attack
Arsenal, fresh off winning the Premier League, are looking to strengthen their squad. They signed Viktor Gyokeres for £64 million last summer, but the Swedish striker, despite scoring over 20 goals in his debut season, has not fully convinced. In crucial matches, including the Champions League final, Kai Havertz was preferred over Gyokeres. The Gunners' recent defeat to PSG highlighted their shortcomings in the final third, and Arteta is expected to add more quality in attack.
Vlahovic's Juventus Record
During his time at Juventus, Vlahovic scored 68 goals in 168 appearances and was named the best striker in Serie A in 2024. However, he only won a solitary Coppa Italia, as Juventus struggled to dominate as they once did. Former Juventus boss Luciano Spalletti had expressed a desire to keep Vlahovic, stating, "We've suffered the loss of Vlahovic like the bread and butter. You can't play football without someone with his characteristics, without a strong, physical threat who scores goals."
Free Transfer Opportunity
With Vlahovic now available on a free transfer, Arsenal have a chance to sign him without the financial burden of a transfer fee. This could be a significant boost for Arteta, who has long admired the Serbian striker. The Gunners will look to capitalize on this opportunity as they aim to build on their championship success and compete in the Champions League.
