- Vlahovic linked with Chelsea transfer
- Striker favours Juventus stay
- Lukaku could be used in possible deal
WHAT HAPPENED? The Juventus striker, 23, is a reported transfer target for Chelsea. Rumours in Italy suggest the Serie A side are considering swapping the Serbian international for wantaway Blues forward Lukaku, plus a fee. However, La Gazzetta dello Sport states the former Fiorentina star is happy to stay put at the Old Lady. The report adds Vlahovic - who is understood to prefer a move to Paris Saint-Germain if he did leave - did not ask for a transfer, he is aware of it, and would not be against heading for pastures new.
THE BIGGER PICTURE: Vlahovic signed for Juventus for £58million ($74m), plus £8m ($10.19m) in add-ons, in January 2022, with a reputation of being one of the best young strikers in Europe. However, he has scored just 23 goals in 63 matches for Juventus - who, incidentally, remain interested in Lukaku; but the Belgian's arrival would depend on the Serbian leaving or him being part of an exchange deal.
AND WHAT'S MORE: If Vlahovic did exit Juventus, it would not be on the cheap as his contract expires in the summer of 2026 - the same year Lukaku's deal expires at Chelsea. The 30-year-old spent last season on loan at Inter Milan after being deemed surplus to requirements at the Blues.
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WHAT NEXT? Despite all the speculation surrounding the 6ft 3in forward, Vlahovic is said to be preparing for Juventus' opening game of the season against Udinese on August 20.