Arsenal could finally land long-term target Dusan Vlahovic this summer without paying a transfer fee, after the Serbian striker failed to agree a new contract with Juventus. The 26-year-old will leave Turin as a free agent, according to reports in Italy.
Vlahovic initially attracted Arsenal's interest in January 2022, but a move fell through due to the hefty £66 million fee and the player's preference for Champions League football. Now, with the Gunners having won the Premier League last season, the circumstances are different.
During his time at Juventus, Vlahovic scored 68 goals in 168 appearances and was named Serie A's best striker in 2024. However, his overall return fell short of expectations, and he won only a single Coppa Italia trophy.
Arsenal signed Viktor Gyokeres for £64 million last summer, but the Swede has not fully convinced, often being benched for key matches in favour of Kai Havertz. Following a defeat to PSG that exposed their attacking shortcomings, manager Mikel Arteta is expected to strengthen his forward line.
Former Juventus boss Luciano Spalletti had hoped to keep Vlahovic, saying: 'You can't play football without someone with his characteristics, without a strong, physical threat who scores goals.' The club attempted to negotiate a renewal, but talks broke down over salary expectations.
