Dusan Vlahovic’s career is at a crossroads after the Serbian striker ran down his contract at Juventus. Several top European clubs are vying for his signature, while a potential return to Turin remains on the cards.
Vlahovic’s future has been one of the major talking points in the early stages of the summer transfer window. Now a free agent, the 26-year-old has received a lucrative contract offer from Turkish giants Besiktas, who seem to be running out of patience.
Indeed, they’ve issued an ultimatum to the former Fiorentina goal-getter. According to Spanish outlet Sport, Vlahovic has until tomorrow to accept their proposal. Otherwise, the Istanbul club will walk away from the negotiating table.
Meanwhile, speculation over Vlahovic’s next destination continues to fill the headlines across Europe. The uncertainty surrounding Vlahovic’s future has also caught the attention of bettors in the US, with Michigan sportsbook offers featuring markets on where the Serbian striker will play next season.
Without further ado, let’s look at the top three options.
#3 Barcelona
Vlahovic has offered himself to Barcelona, hoping the reigning La Liga champions could sign him as a replacement for Robert Lewandowski. Furthermore, Ferran Torres is reportedly one step away from joining Paris Saint-Germain, which would create more room in the attacking department.
However, Vlahovic’s salary demands represent a major stumbling block. He is seeking an eye-watering three-year contract with a substantial signing bonus and agent commissions. Unfortunately for the player, Los Blaugranas have deemed those terms financially unworkable.
Instead, Vlahovic would have to cut his wages if he is to secure a move to Camp Nou. Even that may not be enough, given that Hansi Flick’s charges have earmarked Atletico Madrid star Julian Alvarez as their top target despite Los Colchoneros’ firm stance on the Argentine forward.
#2 Juventus
Juventus have not given up bringing Vlahovic back to Turin, despite allowing his contract to expire. New sporting director Giovanni Carnevali remains hellbent on persuading the Serb to return to the club while preparing to offload both last summer’s signings.
Lois Openda and Jonathan David failed to live up to expectations in their first season in Serie A. While the former scored just a single goal in 24 league appearances, the latter found the net only six times in 35 matches. Therefore, Juventus are open to selling both strikers.
With Randal Kolo Muani’s transfer on the verge of collapse, the Bianconeri could soon turn their full attention to convincing Vlahovic to rejoin the club.
#1 Chelsea
Unlike Barcelona, Chelsea have both the financial muscle and the squad space to meet Vlahovic’s demands. The Blues have become synonymous with lavish spending since Todd Boehly took over from Roman Abramovich in 2022, and Vlahovic could become another high-profile signing.
New boss Xabi Alonso remains on the lookout for a proven goalscorer after Nicolas Jackson and Liam Delap fell short of expectations. More importantly, they can offer Vlahovic the wages he is seeking, making Stamford Bridge an increasingly realistic destination.
If Chelsea decide to accelerate their interest, they could quickly emerge as favourites to win the race for one of the most sought-after free agents on the market.