The Gunners have been interested in acquiring the services of Fiorentina striker Dusan Vlahovic since the last few months. The Serb’s superb display in front of goal has generated a lot of interest across Europe, and the operation won’t be a smooth one as far as the financial side is concerned.
Arsenal’s talks with Vlahovic appear to be hitting a plateau as the London-based club are struggling to shed some weight from their wage bill. Striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had received hefty bids from Saudi Arabian clubs Al Hilal and Al Nassar. However, the Gabonese forward has rejected those offers. As such, Arsenal will have to find other options to move on and secure space in their wage bill.
Aubameyang had earlier been pushed to the sidelines at the Emirates following a disciplinary breach. It also saw him being stripped off the club captaincy, and the forward was also left out of Mikel Arteta’s matchday squads.
Meanwhile, Vlahovic has ceased communications with ACF Fiorentina. The Serie A club have been asking for clarity on his future, but according to club CEO Joe Barone, the player and his agent are currently ‘not answering’ calls from the board.
The 21-year-old has lit up Serie A this season, and he has scored 17 goals in 21 games. With his contract expiring in the summer, he is expected to secure a move at some point this year. While Arsenal were heavily interested in his services, they might be forced to take a step back due to recent developments.
According to Sky Italia, Juventus are extremely close to signing the Serbian forward, and the deal is set to be valued at 75 million euros. Instead of waiting till the summer when his contract expires, the Bianconeri want to bring him to the Allianz Stadium immediately and are ready to meet Fiorentina’s financial demands.
Agreement in place between Juventus and Fiorentina for Dusan Vlahović. Details and terms of payment sorted out. ⚪️⚫️ #Vlahovic
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 25, 2022
Final stages on contract now discussed between Vlahović, his agent and Juventus board. Work in progress. 🇷🇸 #Juve
📲 More: https://t.co/kDWXX8O2j6 pic.twitter.com/UzAZG96AKf
Vlahovic has reportedly agreed personal terms with the Old Lady and will sign a 7 million euros-a year deal over the next five years.
