Arsenal are set to continue their pursuit of Fiorentina striker Dusan Vlahovic this summer having missed out on the forward a few years ago.
The 21-year-old has been turning heads with his displays for Fiorentina this season. Despite La Viola struggling to 13th in the Italian top-flight table this term, the Serbia international has bagged 21 league goals. They have come from 34 appearances and 31 starts and it appears as though many European clubs are keen.
The Gunners emerged as favourites for his signature back in March despite Roma reportedly showing their hand. However, since them, the likes of Liverpool, Manchester United and Manchester City have also been linked.
It seems as though Fiorentina may well cash in on the youngster this summer, with so many big-name suitors waiting. The north Londoners have been tipped to make a bid.
But, according to Corriere Fiorentino (via Sport Witness), they could have snared him in 2017. The Emirates outfit first showed an interest while he was on the book at Partizan Belgrade.
But Fiorentina won the race and paid €1.5m to take him to Stadio Artemio Franchi. That now sounds like a bargain, with a fee of €50m thought to be required to get a deal over the line.
Whether Arsenal are prepared to pay that much only time will tell but he looks an exciting prospect.
Vlahovic to help bolster Arteta attacking ranks
After a poor campaign by their standards, it is thought Arsenal will bring in several new players this summer. The Spanish tactician needs help up front, with only 49 Premier League goals scored this season to date.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette are his preferred strikers at present. Aubameyang has 10 goals from 26 outings in 2020-21 while Lacazette has 13 from 29.
And it is obvious that they have struggled in the duo’s absence. Lacazette’s future is unclear as he has been linked with a move away from the club.
Vlahovic could be the man to replace him but other clubs are also known to be keen. AC Milan and Tottenham were mentioned in connection with the player back in March.
West Ham and Newcastle have also been linked and it seems as though the youngster will have a busy summer. Fiorentina do not want to sell their prized asset but the lure of a large transfer fee might give them a nudge.
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