Newcastle United are reportedly plotting a blockbuster swoop for Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic next summer and could include club-record summer signing Alexander Isak in their bid.
Serbian hitman Dusan Vlahovic has emerged as a subject of interest for Premier League high-flyers Newcastle United. That’s according to Italian outlet Calciomercatoweb, which claims that the Magpies are “dreaming” of signing Vlahovic if they qualify for the Champions League this season.
And the Tynesiders will be prepared to include their record-signing Alexander Isak as a makeweight in any potential deal, despite having only recently pushed the boat out to bring the promising Swede to St James’ Park in a £59 million deal back in August.
However, the report adds that the feasibility of a move happening anytime soon appears very slim, with Juventus not planning to sell their prized striker unless there is a ridiculous offer, and that too a straight cash deal.
This is not the first time Newcastle have been credited with a move for the Serbian bomber. The 22-year-old was one of the hottest commodities on the striker market in January this year when it became evident that his time at Fiorentina was drawing to a close.
Arsenal were thought to be the frontrunner in the race for his services, while Tottenham and Manchester City were also tipped to have made inquiries with Fiorentina over a potential move.
Amidst all, Newcastle United also tried their luck as they looked to snatch Vlahovic from under the noses of big clubs with an ambitious swoop, but the Serbian swiftly snubbed advances from then relegation-threatened Magpies to join Massimiliano Allegri’s side.
Vlahovic has since scored 16 goals and registered four assists in 36 appearances for Juventus since his winter arrival, including seven goals in 15 games across all competitions this season. However, these numbers don’t tell the whole story, the Serbian has at times come under criticism for his display as he has really struggled to adapt to Allegri’s tactics and his demands.
Juve themselves have had a dismal start to the season, being relegated to the UEFA Europa League after some catastrophic displays in Champions League. However, the Bianconeri have headed into the World Cup break in positive spirits off the back of a good run of results domestically and now sit third behind only Napoli and AC Milan.
Taking all of this into consideration, this rumour appears to be cooked to earn clicks, and makes no sense at all, and has no legs or substance to it. The mooted swap deal is likewise absurd. It would be pointless for Newcastle to let Isak go and replace him with another striker for over £60 million.
Isak has enjoyed a promising start to life at St James’ Park and showcased flashes of his brilliance before his injury.
Should Juventus fade away into obscurity and fail to qualify for the Champions League down the line this season, which appears unlikely if their recent revival is anything to go by, then there might be a case for Vlahovic to leave Turin for better career prospects. But then again, it is highly likely that Newcastle will have to face some stiff competition from European establishments for the 17-time capped Serbian international’s signature.
