Arsenal Football Club is intensifying its efforts to secure Serbian striker Dusan Vlahovic as the transfer window approaches its conclusion. The Gunners are keen to enhance their attacking options, having recently made a £60 million bid for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, which was promptly rejected. Reports indicate that Arsenal is preparing a more competitive offer as they seek to address their recent struggles in front of goal.
The transfer landscape has shifted significantly following the £63 million sale of Jhon Duran to Al Nassr, prompting Arsenal to expand their search for potential signings. According to Football365, the Gunners are revisiting their interest in Vlahovic, who opted to join Juventus in January 2022 rather than making a move to the Emirates. Recent developments suggest that the striker is keen to leave Juventus, particularly after the arrival of Randal Kolo Muani, who made an immediate impact by scoring on his debut against Napoli.
Italian media sources indicate that Juventus would prefer to sell Vlahovic now rather than wait until the summer, when he would enter the final year of his contract. The club is eager to avoid a repeat of the Federico Chiesa situation, where they sold the winger to Liverpool at a reduced price. CaughtOffside has confirmed Arsenal's renewed interest in Vlahovic, stating that they are "pivoting away" from Watkins and are determined to secure either Vlahovic or RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko. The report highlights that Sesko has been a long-term target for manager Mikel Arteta, although Leipzig's recent exit from the Champions League could complicate matters, with the German club reportedly unwilling to lower Sesko's £67 million asking price.
In addition to their pursuit of a central striker, Arsenal is also exploring options to provide backup for Bukayo Saka. Players such as Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth and Bryan Mbeumo of Brentford have emerged as viable alternatives. Furthermore, the Gunners are monitoring Bayern Munich’s Mathys Tel, who has expressed a desire to play as a central striker despite primarily featuring on the wing. The 19-year-old is known for his pace, finishing ability, and versatility across the front line, making him an attractive prospect for Arsenal’s forward options.
The Independent has noted that Tel fits Arsenal’s criteria for a forward, particularly with his potential for development in a consistent role. While Bayern Munich may be reluctant to part with such a promising talent, they could consider a deal that allows Tel to gain crucial playing time elsewhere while retaining the option to bring him back in the future.
Tel reportedly harbours a strong interest in moving to Arsenal, drawn by the club’s current trajectory and the promise of more playing opportunities, especially when compared to Chelsea, who are also tracking the young forward but boast a wealth of attacking options.
As the transfer window nears its end, Arsenal remains active and flexible in their strategy to enhance their squad, exploring multiple avenues to secure the players necessary for a successful season. The Gunners' pursuit of Vlahovic and other targets reflects their ambition to build a competitive side capable of challenging for honours in the months ahead.