Is Arsenal’s Vlahovic interest genuine or a ploy? | OneFootball

Reports of Arsenal’s renewed interest in Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic are everywhere, but the situation might be more complex than it seems.

Given Vlahovic’s previous rejection of Arsenal and ongoing contract negotiations with Juventus, there’s speculation that his camp could be using Arsenal’s ‘interest’ to gain leverage in those discussions.

Juventus’ Serbian forward #09 Dusan Vlahovic reacts during the Italian Serie A football match between Torino and Juventus at the Grande Torino Stadium in Turin on April 13, 2024.(Photo by MARCO BERTORELLO/AFP via Getty Images)

Italian sources suggest Arsenal have rekindled their interest in Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic. This development comes as the Serbian forward enjoys a strong season despite Juventus‘ broader struggles.

However, there’s a strong possibility that Vlahovic and his agent could be using this rumoured interest to gain leverage in contract negotiations with Juventus.

History repeating itself?

It’s important to remember that Vlahovic rejected Arsenal in favour of Juventus when he initially made the move from Fiorentina in 2022. This casts some doubt on the sincerity of his current potential interest in a move to the Emirates.

Contract leverage

CAGLIARI, ITALY – APRIL 19: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus celebretes his goal 2-1 during the Serie A TIM match between Cagliari and Juventus at Sardegna Arena on April 19, 2024 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)

Vlahovic is currently under contract with Juventus for two more years. Reports indicate that the club is in negotiations with his agent to extend his stay and manage his substantial salary. Arsenal’s rumored interest, especially in the context of their need for a new striker this summer, could provide Vlahovic’s camp with a strong bargaining chip to secure more favorable terms from Juventus.