Arsenal is intensifying their efforts to sign Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic in a potential player-plus-cash deal this winter. After a disappointing December, where they dropped 11 points in the Premier League, Arsenal finds themselves five points behind league leaders Liverpool and are eager to strengthen their squad to challenge for the title.

Manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly in search of a new striker, and while targets like Victor Osimhen and Ivan Toney may be financially out of reach for Arsenal in the current transfer window, Vlahovic is seen as a more realistic option. Juventus is said to be demanding at least £52 million for the Serbian international, but Arsenal could potentially negotiate the price down by including promising young midfielder Charlie Patino as part of the deal.

Although Arsenal has been linked with Ivan Toney in recent weeks, Brentford is determined to keep hold of him as they figҺt against relegation. With Toney set to return from a betting ban in mid-January, he could play a crucial role in their survival bid, making it difficult for Arsenal to secure his signature. Therefore, Vlahovic has emerged as an alternative target for the Gunners. Despite only scoring six goals in 17 games this season, the 23-year-old striker is highly regarded and has been on Arsenal’s radar since January of the previous year when he was with Fiorentina.

While Juventus football director Cristiano Giuntoli recently stated that Vlahovic is not for sale this month, the financial challenges faced by the club could potentially change their stance. If Arsenal were to offer around £40 million plus the inclusion of Patino in the deal, there is a possibility that Juventus might consider parting ways with the talented striker.