Chelsea are in advanced discussions to sign Dusan Vlahovic on a free transfer this summer, with talks now extending to the player’s father, Milos, according to reports from Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport. The 26-year-old Serbian striker is available after deciding not to renew his contract with Juventus, prompting a scramble for his signature among several top European clubs.
Chelsea have been monitoring Vlahovic’s situation for several years, maintaining contact throughout his time in Italy. The Blues are actively seeking a new number nine and the opportunity to acquire a proven goalscorer like Vlahovic without a transfer fee is proving attractive. TEAMtalk’s Graeme Bailey reported earlier this month that Chelsea were ‘very much keen’ on securing the forward.
Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti has reportedly requested a final attempt to convince Vlahovic to stay, with a meeting scheduled between the club and the player’s representatives. However, with Juventus’ director of football, Giorgio Chiellini, having already announced Vlahovic’s departure, a reversal appears unlikely. This has given Chelsea encouragement, though they face competition from Newcastle United, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich, all of whom have also held talks with Vlahovic’s camp.
Juventus are already planning for life without Vlahovic, identifying Paris Saint-Germain’s Randal Kolo Muani, currently on loan at Tottenham Hotspur, as a potential replacement. Vlahovic has scored an impressive 136 goals throughout his senior career, making him a highly desirable target for clubs across Europe. His arrival at Stamford Bridge could mark the first major signing under new manager Xabi Alonso.
The potential signing of Vlahovic could also impact the future of Chelsea’s Liam Delap. Signed last summer from Ipswich Town, Delap has struggled to make a significant impact at Stamford Bridge, and the club are reportedly open to selling him should a suitable replacement be found. Newcastle United and former club Everton are both monitoring Delap’s situation, potentially offering him an escape route should the deal for Vlahovic materialize.
