Gazzetta dello Sport report how Dusan Vlahovic’s relationship with Juventus has reached an all-time low, with the risk of a deadlock looming. The Serbian striker’s future at the club is uncertain as he faces a critical month ahead, juggling both contract renewal negotiations and the need to reclaim his starting position.
Vlahovic’s struggles began with his fourth consecutive bench appearance in the league. Against Empoli, he experienced sitting out an entire match for the first time this season, a situation not seen since September 2022. This time, there’s no squad rotation to blame, even with Juventus facing PSV in the Champions League playoffs.
The arrival of Randal Kolo Muani on loan from PSG has further complicated matters for Vlahovic. The French striker has already netted five goals in three matches, making him the favourite to lead the attack. This development has pushed Vlahovic down the pecking order, straining his relationship with the club to its limits.
The next month will be crucial for Vlahovic’s future at Juventus. With five matches across Serie A, Champions League, and Coppa Italia until the end of February, opportunities to prove himself will not be scarce. However, if no agreement is reached during the March meeting regarding his contract, the situation could escalate to an impasse.
Juventus are clear about their stance: either Vlahovic renews his contract or he will be sold in June, a year before his current deal expires. The club is not willing to risk losing him on a free transfer. Without a contract extension, Sporting Director Cristiano Giuntoli will ask Vlahovic’s agent, Darko Ristic, to bring an offer. However, finding a club that can match his current double-digit salary at Juventus may prove challenging.
Vlahovic now faces a dilemma: stay at Juventus with a reduced salary or leave, potentially at a depreciated value if his current form continues. Coach Thiago Motta believes Vlahovic and Kolo Muani can coexist on the field, but prefers not to start with two strikers.
The upcoming international break in March will be pivotal. Vlahovic must make a final decision on his contract renewal. His entourage seems inclined to let the current contract run its course, hoping to secure a similar salary elsewhere. However, this strategy could backfire, as Juventus may be less inclined to play a player who will be on the market in June.
Vlahovic’s market value has already dropped to 40-50 million euros, half of what Juventus paid for him. The less he plays, the more his value decreases, creating problems for both the club and the player. Juventus may struggle to find buyers, while Vlahovic risks having to settle for a less prestigious club.
As it stands, a summer departure seems the most likely outcome. Juventus would then need to use the funds from Vlahovic’s sale to finance a new striker, possibly making Kolo Muani’s move permanent, although the club prefers to extend the loan and postpone the purchase until 2026.
