Chelsea to begin talks to sign Dusan Vlahovic

Chelsea are set to begin talks with Juventus for €80 million-rated striker Dusan Vlahovic, with the Serb likely to leave Turin.

According to Rudy Galetti, Chelsea and Juventus could begin talks to discuss a move for Dusan Vlahovic. The Serbian striker could become surplus to requirements in Turin, with the Serie A giants eager to raise funds through player sales after missing out on a top-four finish.

The Dusan Vlahovic story at Juventus might see a premature end, as the Bianconeri might consider a sizeable offer for the striker. The €80 million-rated Serb remains one of their prized assets among other stars, with the club eager to generate funds in the market.

They might have kept hold of the €80 million-rated striker had they finished in the top four. However, a late 10-point deduction caused them to slip down the table and finish seventh, deemed good enough to play Europa Conference League next season.

Moreover, Massimiliano Allegri has not warmed to the idea of the striker in his system, with the Italian likely to seek another option for next season. Juventus paid slightly over €80 million to sign Vlahovic 18 months ago and would like that money back, if not more.

Manchester United hold an interest, but their takeover situation could stall a potential move for the €80 million-rated striker. There were rumblings of a move to Real Madrid and replace Karim Benzema. But the Spanish giants could now look at a potential move for Kylian Mbappe.

Arsenal have also kept tabs, but they may also pivot away from the striker following the season’s success under Mikel Arteta. Hence, it leaves Chelsea as the only viable alternative for Vlahovic alongside Bayern Munich, who may also show an interest.

Chelsea are keen on a new striker after a disappointing season that saw them finish 12th in the Premier League. Like Juventus, they will not play in the Champions League next season. They are searching for a new striker, but spending heavily might depend on their sales in the coming days.

Hence, they have reportedly tried to use Romelu Lukaku as a makeweight in a deal for Vlahovic, but there have been no developments. Juventus may want a cash-only deal for the €80 million-rated striker, something Chelsea might struggle with.

Rudy Galetti now claims the two clubs could begin talks over a move, with Mauricio Pochettino reportedly wanting the striker to join. Vlahovic has also shown inclination towards moving to England and may get his transfer if there’s an agreement between the two clubs.

Chelsea could also look at other options if they cannot agree on a fee with Juventus. The English side might look to pay less than the asking price for the €80 million-rated striker, but it will become difficult. They are also linked with high-profile moves for some costly players, including Moises Caicedo.

Hence, making two expensive signings in this window could prove tricky for Chelsea. Yet, they might start talks to see where the negotiations with Juventus go for Vlahovic before deciding.