In a bold move to bolster their attacking options, José Mourinho’s Fenerbahçe is reportedly preparing a significant bid to acquire Juventus striker Dušan Vlahović. The Turkish club is said to be ready to offer between €25 million and €30 million for the Serbian international, aiming to make a substantial impact in the transfer market.
Vlahović, who joined Juventus in January 2022 for a reported €70 million, has been a key player for the Italian side, scoring 43 goals in 104 appearances. However, contract renewal talks between the 25-year-old striker and Juventus have stalled, with disagreements over salary expectations. Vlahović is reportedly seeking an annual salary of €12 million, a figure Juventus is hesitant to meet.
Fenerbahçe’s interest in Vlahović aligns with Mourinho’s strategic vision for the club. With veteran striker Edin Džeko’s contract expiring this summer, Mourinho is keen on securing a high-caliber replacement to lead the attack. Vlahović’s physical presence and goal-scoring prowess make him an ideal candidate for this role.
Despite Fenerbahçe’s willingness to match Vlahović’s salary demands, the striker has reportedly turned down the offer, expressing a preference for a move to the Premier League. Clubs like Manchester United and Arsenal have shown interest in the past, and Vlahović appears to be holding out for opportunities in England.
Juventus, on the other hand, may be open to selling Vlahović to fund a permanent move for PSG loanee Randal Kolo Muani, who has impressed during his stint in Turin. The Italian club values Vlahović at around €25 million to €30 million, a price Fenerbahçe is prepared to meet.
Fenerbahçe’s pursuit of Vlahović underscores their ambition to compete at the highest levels domestically and in European competitions. While the striker’s current inclination is towards the Premier League, the Turkish club’s determination and financial commitment could still play a pivotal role in swaying his decision.
As the summer transfer window approaches, the situation remains fluid. Fenerbahçe’s management and Mourinho are likely to continue their efforts to convince Vlahović, emphasizing the project’s potential and the opportunity to be a central figure in the team’s resurgence. Whether these efforts will be sufficient to change the striker’s mind remains to be seen.
