Atletico Madrid in Talks to Sign Dusan Vlahovic as Free Agent
Atletico Madrid has initiated discussions regarding a potential transfer for former Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, as reported by Sport. The La Liga club is considering the option to bring the Serbian international to Spain on a free transfer.
Vlahovic emerged as a highly sought-after free agent following the expiration of his contract with Juventus in June. His impressive track record has caught the attention of multiple clubs, including Manchester United, Barcelona, and Besiktas. However, Atletico’s interest may be particularly enticing for Vlahovic, who has reportedly identified the Spanish club as his preferred destination.
According to recent reports, Vlahovic is currently awaiting an offer from Atletico and has prioritized a move to the Metropolitano Stadium, having previously turned down the club in 2021. Atletico expressed interest in Vlahovic during his tenure at Fiorentina, but he ultimately chose to remain in Italy before moving to Juventus for €70 million in January 2022.
Despite the high expectations surrounding his arrival in Turin, Vlahovic’s time with Juventus did not yield the anticipated success. He netted 68 goals in 168 appearances but struggled with consistency due to managerial changes and ongoing injuries. Last season, he only scored seven goals in 19 Serie A matches as Juventus finished sixth.
Atletico’s pursuit of Vlahovic may hinge on the future of Alexander Sorloth, who has also drawn attention from Turkish club Fenerbahce. Reports suggest that Fenerbahce is contemplating a move for Sorloth, leading Atletico to discuss a loan deal with an obligation to purchase for €35 million.
While the club could potentially accommodate both forwards, their similar playing styles present complications for a long-term arrangement. Both Sorloth and Vlahovic are strong, left-footed strikers known for their physical presence and ability to finish chances in the box. If Julian Alvarez successfully pushes for an exit, Atletico may be forced to rely on both Sorloth and Vlahovic.
Atletico Madrid have opened talks over a move for former Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, according to Sport.
Los Colchoneros are exploring the possibility of bringing the Serbia international to Spain on a free transfer.
Advertisement
Vlahovic became one of the most sought-after free agents in Europe after leaving Juventus following the expiration of his contract in Turin in June.
The 26-year-old has attracted interest from several clubs, including Manchester United, Barcelona and Besiktas.
However, Atletico’s approach could prove particularly appealing after Vlahovic reportedly made the Spanish side his preferred destination.
According to other reports, Vlahovic is currently waiting for Atletico to make an offer and has prioritised a move to the Metropolitano after previously turning down the club in 2021.
Atletico were keen on the striker during his time at Fiorentina, but Vlahovic ultimately opted to remain in Italy before joining Juventus for €70 million in January 2022.
Advertisement
Unfortunately, his four-and-a-half-year spell in Turin failed to deliver the success expected of a player who arrived with such a massive price tag.
Vlahovic scored 68 goals in 168 appearances for Juventus, struggling for consistency due to managerial instability and recurring groin problems.
He managed only seven Serie A goals in 19 appearances last season as Juventus finished sixth.
Atletico’s interest could depend on the future of Alexander Sorloth, who has also emerged as a target for Fenerbahce.
The Turkish club is reportedly considering a move for the Norwegian, with Atletico discussing a loan deal containing a €35 million obligation to buy.
Advertisement
However, Atletico could potentially accommodate both forwards, although their similarities in style make that an unlikely long-term solution.
Sorloth and Vlahovic are both imposing, left-footed No.9s who thrive on physical battles and finishing chances inside the box.
But if Julian Alvarez, who has been angling for an exit, gets his wish, the club might have to stick with Sorloth and Vlahovic.
[/gpt3]