Rumour Has It: Arsenal look to Juventus striker Vlahovic after Jesus injury

Arsenal are reportedly the leading candidate to land Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic after an injury to Gabriel Jesus exposed their lack of depth in attack.

Vlahovic, 22, was purchased from Fiorentina for €70million in January this year, and started the current Serie A campaign in fine form, with six goals and an assist from his first 10 starts.

He missed Juventus’ final four league games leading into the World Cup break due to an adductor injury, and failed to make much of an impact for Serbia in Qatar, scoring one goal from a combined 79 minutes on the field.

While he still has another three seasons on his contract, Juventus’ behind-the-scenes turmoil could make the young talent available as the club sort out their financial issues.

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TOP STORY – ARSENAL EMERGE AS FAVOURITES FOR SERBIA’S VLAHOVIC

According to Calciomercato, Vlahovic is no longer viewed as the “immovable cornerstone” he was before the season, mentioning the “corporate situation” as an important factor.

The report implies Vlahovic will only be sold if it is necessary to do so, and, more importantly, that it will likely not be until the end of the season that Juventus begin to entertain the possibility.

With Jesus scheduled to miss three months following his knee surgery, Arsenal will need to decide if their need for cover means they need to pivot to an alternate option.

Meanwhile, a separate Calciomercato report adds Juventus would be happy to exchange Vlahovic for Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix, who is also reportedly nearing the end of his time with his club.

ROUND-UP

– Il Romanista is reporting Roma will attempt to bring in Barcelona’s Hector Bellerin in January if right-back Rick Karsdorp leaves the club as he has requested.

– Sport reports Barcelona could secure midfielder Ruben Neves in January for less than Wolves‘ initial €50m asking price, but Xavi is said to prefer Real Sociedad‘s Martin Zubimendi or Chelsea’s N’Golo Kante.

– Eintracht Frankfurt‘s 24-year-old forward Randal Kolo Muani is reportedly being tracked by Liverpool, Tottenham and Atletico Madrid, per Fichajes.

– According to O Jogo, Real Madrid have approached Benfica about a potential purchase of 21-year-old midfielder Enzo Fernandez.

– The Mirror claims Everton are exploring a £35m move for 24-year-old Watford winger Ismaila Sarr.