Published On: Tue, Jan 28th, 2025
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Chelsea news: Blues ditch £54m star from ‘wish list’ and hand Arsenal huge opportunity | Football | Sport

Chelsea have reportedly ruled out a move for Dusan Vlahovic, paving the way for Arsenal to snap up the Juventus striker.

The Bianconeri are open to selling Vlahovic this winter as he approaches the final year of his contract. Arsenal and Chelsea are both in the market for a centre-forward, and one with 53 goals in 127 Juve games fits the calibre of player they need.

Although Nicolas Jackson has done a respectable job of leading the line for Enzo Maresca this season, Chelsea are believed to be keeping an eye on the market for tempting opportunities. A move for Vlahovic, however, has been ruled out by the board.

The Athletic claim that Chelsea are focusing on other targets, including Bayern Munich youngster Mathys Tel and Ipswich Town forward Liam Delap. Arsenal are therefore in a promising position if Mikel Arteta and sporting director Jason Ayto agree to swoop for Vlahovic, whose links to the Emirates Stadium stretch back years.

The Gunners need reinforcements up top to help Kai Havertz following injuries to Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus. And top targets like Benjamin Sesko, Victor Osimhen, Alexander Isak and Matheus Cunha are all expected to be out of their January price range.

Vlahovic could be available for around £54million, although other reports suggest Juve would be willing to sell for an even lower fee amid the threat of losing him on the cheap as his contract winds down.

Arteta is understood to want a striker capable of making an instant impact, and Vlahovic is Juve’s top scorer in Serie A this season with seven goals. The 24-year-old also enjoyed a strong stint at Fiorentina before heading to Turin, and he boasts an impressive international record with Serbia.

Maresca is battling uncertainty in his attacking ranks, with Christopher Nkunku reportedly keen to secure regular football away from Stamford Bridge. The Frenchman has struggled to oust Jackson from the Premier League line-up and has been played primarily in cup competitions.

Joao Felix could also be on his way out of Chelsea before the winter window closes. Aston Villa are said to have enquired about his availability, with manager Unai Emery a huge admirer after trying to sign him last summer.

Chelsea have slipped down to sixth in the Premier League table after making a barnstorming start to the season. With 15 games to go, they have a tough scrap on their hands to finish in the top four and qualify for next season’s Champions League.