Chelsea are reportedly now leading the race to sign Juventus’ Dušan Vlahović this summer.
The Serbia international’s contract expires on June 30th and there’s been no signs of a renewal.
His contract situation has already caught the attention of Chelsea and several other clubs.
In February, we relayed news of the west London club hovering over a potential free signing.
Earlier this month, Sport Witness covered claims from Italy that the striker’s father and agent, Milos, has held talks with Chelsea and Newcastle United. He’s ready to listen to offers while the 26-year-old is open to staying at Juventus.
Therefore, the representative had a do-or-die meeting with the Serie A side to push for a renewal.
Boost for Chelsea as no renewal
Tutto Juve report the frontman won’t sign an extension and will leave Juventus as a free agent. The outlet makes it clear it’s their own information.
This is encouragement for the former Fiorentina man’s suitors, including Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Newcastle United.
Among these, the Blues are ‘most likely’ to sign Dušan Vlahović. They see him as an ideal striker to improve their attack.
Due to his contract, experience and qualities, Tutto Juve state the frontman would be a ‘significant coup’ for Xabi Alonso’s side.
Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Newcastle United are likely to provide tough competition as it’s a free signing.
The interested parties would be waiting for the Serbian to make the final decision. Juve, on the other hand, have to look for the striker’s successor.
Vlahović can improve Chelsea
João Pedro, Liam Delap and Marc Guiu were the three strikers at Chelsea this season. The Brazilian starred in his debut season while the other two struggled.
Guiu only managed an assist while Delap had a goal and an assist in the Premier League.
Taking this into account, Dušan Vlahović’s addition can improve the Blues’ attack. At the same time, his arrival could push at least Delap or Guiu to leave this summer.
The Serbian’s value, as per Transfermarkt, is €35m and the highest was €85m in March 2022.