The world of football transfers is often a high-stakes chess match, but for Juventus and their star striker Dusan Vlahovic, it`s increasingly resembling a high-speed game of `Snakes and Ladders` – or, as the Italian press puts it, «Gioco dell`Oca,» the Game of the Goose. Despite Vlahovic`s recent return to blistering form, the Turin giants are reportedly eyeing a January exit for the Serbian, with Premier League heavyweights Chelsea and Manchester United lurking. This isn`t just about on-field performance; it`s a deep dive into financial pragmatism, strategic squad planning, and the unforgiving nature of modern football contracts.
A Striker in Limbo: The Vlahovic Conundrum
Just a short while ago, in the nascent stages of the current season (set in the not-too-distant future of late 2025, as reports suggest), Vlahovic seemed destined for a diminished role at Juventus. New summer arrivals Jonathan David and Lois Openda were positioned as the future, leaving the powerful Serbian international as a luxury reserve, a «Gran Riserva.» Yet, football has a peculiar way of rewriting scripts. Vlahovic, often emerging from the bench, has become an unlikely hero, consistently finding the back of the net against teams like Parma, Genoa, and even Borussia Dortmund. His knack for scoring crucial goals, especially when introduced as a substitute, has ironically strengthened his market value at a time when Juventus is actively looking to move him on.
This paradoxical situation has left manager Igor Tudor with much to ponder. Vlahovic`s contributions are undeniable, raising questions about the initial hierarchy. How can a player initially deemed expendable now be crucial for points, yet still be considered for sale? The answer, as it often is in top-tier football, lies predominantly in the balance sheets.
The «Game of the Goose» and Financial Finesse
Juventus`s desire to part ways with Vlahovic isn`t a knee-jerk reaction to a dip in form; it`s a calculated move rooted in long-term financial strategy and the impending expiry of his contract in June 2026. The club made significant investments in David (a reported €12 million in commissions and a €6 million salary until 2030) and Openda (a deal that could reach nearly €50 million). These outlays signal a clear shift in attacking priorities.
Vlahovic, meanwhile, commands a hefty salary, reportedly touching €12 million this season alone. Losing him for free in June 2026 would not only mean no transfer fee but also a season and a half of that substantial salary. By selling him in January, Juventus could save half a season`s wages and potentially secure a transfer fee – even if it`s a more modest €10-15 million than initially hoped. It`s a classic case of mitigating a potential loss before it fully materializes. The «Game of the Goose» analogy perfectly captures this recurring strategic pivot – seemingly returning to square one, but with a different set of objectives.
The Allure of the Premier League
Enter the Premier League. With its formidable financial power and a constant need to bolster squads, English clubs are often the first to circle when a talent like Vlahovic becomes available. Chelsea and Manchester United are specifically mentioned as keen observers of the situation. Both clubs, perpetually seeking that cutting edge in attack, see the 25-year-old Serb as a potentially valuable addition.
The appeal of a January move for these English suitors is clear: it allows them to pre-empt a potential summer auction. If Vlahovic were to become a free agent in June 2026, he would be courted by numerous clubs, driving up agent fees and signing bonuses. By moving in January 2026, a club could secure his services earlier, potentially at a reduced transfer fee for Juventus (as they are desperate to sell) but still offering a more predictable and controlled acquisition process than battling multiple clubs for a free transfer.
Will Dusan Bid Farewell?
Vlahovic`s resilience is notable. He previously resisted a summer transfer, determined to prove his worth at Juventus. However, the club`s unwavering stance, coupled with his role as a «super-sub» rather than the undisputed starter, might just sway his decision. The message from the «Continassa» (Juventus`s headquarters) is clear: the door is open for offers.
For the player, a January move to the Premier League could offer a fresh start, a starring role, and a chance to prove his consistent ability at the highest level. For Juventus, it represents a difficult but necessary financial maneuver – turning a significant asset that`s becoming a liability into a cash injection and salary relief. The renewal talks, once a possibility, are now off the table. A dramatic U-turn could only happen if Vlahovic were willing to take a significant pay cut, a highly improbable scenario for a player entering his prime with numerous suitors.
As the winter transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Turin. Will Dusan Vlahovic`s goal-scoring heroics be enough to change Juventus`s mind, or will the financial imperatives of modern football dictate a January farewell to the Premier League? The «Game of the Goose» continues, and this time, a major piece might be moving off the board entirely.
Elton Marrow