Arsenal ready to launch massive £71m forward bid but could end up weakening Arteta’s side in the process
Arsenal have reportedly turned their attention to snapping up a Juventus forward after coming to terms with being snubbed by Chelsea new boy Mykhailo Mudryk.
The Ukraine international turned down a switch to The Emirates to move to Stamford Bridge over the weekend after the Blues offered more for his services, with the Gunners reportedly left ‘aggravated’ by the whole situation.
However, it appears they are moving on quickly and are already looking at other targets before the January window closes.
Barcelona winger Raphinha is once again being linked with a switch to north London, after a failed move in the summer.
But it’s Juve, and Dusan Vlahovic in particular, that is the subject of major interest again – according to Calciomercato.
Mikel Arteta wants another attacker on board due to Gabriel Jesus’ continued absence. And while Mudryk would have been more of a wide option, Vlahovic is a like-for-like swap for the Brazilian.
The report claims technical director Edu is preparing a £71million bid for the Serbia international. And Juventus could even be tempted by that offer due to their current financial issues.
The 22-year-old has scored 16 goals in 36 games for the Turin giants since signing from Fiorentina for €80million.
However, Vlahovic could be on his way just a year on from his transfer to Juve.
Edu’s known to be a fan of the striker who, despite being 6ft 3in, has good movement and is quick.
Juve still keen on Gabriel move
There is a potential caveat to a potential deal though, as Calcio adds that Juve are still keen on signing Gabriel as a makeweight.
The Brazilian has forged an outstanding partnership with William Saliba at the heart of the Arsenal defence this season. Indeed, the duo were hugely impressive again in the 2-0 derby win at Tottenham on Sunday.
And if Juve insist on Gabriel being part of the Vlahovic transfer then Edu and Arteta could have a huge dilemma on their hands.
Vlahovic will no doubt give them more firepower, but is it worth it to lose Gabriel’s quality at the back.
If that scenario is put to Arsenal, Edu may end up switching to alternatives again. Indeed, the likes of Brighton’s Leandro Trossard and Crystal Palace Wilfried Zaha are also on the Gunners’ radar.
Arteta’s table-topping side are back in action on Sunday when they face a huge clash with Manchester United.
