A Career in Decline
Dusan Vlahovic, the 26-year-old Serbian striker, has been a free agent since leaving Juventus at the expiry of his contract earlier this summer. Despite being one of the most highly rated forwards in the world, Vlahovic's career has taken a downturn in recent times. He finished his Juventus career with a ratio of over one goal every three games, ending with 68 goals from 168 appearances. However, injuries have plagued him, with abductor problems being the main issue across his time in Turin.
A Lack of Interest from Premier League Clubs
Vlahovic has long been linked with a Premier League transfer, with Arsenal missing out on him before he decided to join Juventus. However, numerous reports suggest that the 26-year-old is now on the cusp of joining Turkish club Besiktas. One of the reasons that many Premier League clubs swerved him in the past was due to his reportedly extortionate wages of over £300,000 per week. This has made it difficult for clubs to justify the cost of signing him.
Chelsea's Interest Fades
European football expert Andy Brassell thinks Chelsea would have been a good move for Vlahovic. However, it seems that Chelsea's interest in the striker has dwindled. Brassell told talkSPORT.com that "it's very likely to be Besiktas" for Vlahovic, citing the Turkish club's offer and Vlahovic's desire for a better salary. This suggests that Chelsea's interest in Vlahovic has not been enough to persuade him to join the club.
What Went Wrong for Vlahovic?
Vlahovic's time at Juventus was marked by a lean period for the club. They won one Coppa Italia in the 2023/24 campaign and nothing else while he was there. This lack of success may have contributed to Vlahovic's decline. Additionally, his injuries have made it difficult for him to maintain a consistent level of performance.
Chelsea's Attacking Options
Chelsea currently have four strikers on the books ahead of the new season, which they start off against Fulham, live on talkSPORT. Joao Pedro is expected to be the main man leading the line for Xabi Alonso's side. The Brazilian has been in great form in pre-season. Danny Welbeck has joined from Brighton for a minimal fee, bringing experience to the forward line. Then there is the returning Nicolas Jackson, who spent last season on loan with Bayern Munich.
A Career in Turmoil
Vlahovic's future remains uncertain, and it seems that his Premier League dream is fading. With Besiktas looming, it's unclear what the future holds for the Serbian striker. Will he take a pay cut to join a Premier League club, or will he opt for the Turkish club's offer? Only time will tell.