In the often-unpredictable realm of football transfers, AC Milan is currently navigating a particularly intriguing, and dare we say, financially acrobatic, pursuit. The Rossoneri’s quest for a prolific central striker has led them to Dusan Vlahovic, a name synonymous with high potential, a hefty price tag, and, unfortunately for Juventus, a somewhat unfulfilled tenure. However, Milan`s interest comes with a significant caveat: a transfer on their stringent economic terms, or no deal at all.
The Serbian Striker`s Predicament
Dusan Vlahovic finds himself at a pivotal crossroads. With his contract at Juventus set to expire next summer (June 2026), and a reported net salary of €12 million that hardly aligns with his output of 58 goals in 145 appearances – a respectable tally, yet perhaps not `top-tier striker` material for such an investment – his departure from Turin appears increasingly likely. The relationship, it seems, has become strained, bordering on a “separate existence” within the club. Vlahovic, fresh from a Club World Cup campaign, is reportedly seeking a “grand stage” for a career reboot, given Juventus`s relatively modest trophy haul during his time there (a single Coppa Italia in 2023-24).
The situation is further complicated by Juventus`s apparent intentions to bring in other high-profile forwards, such as Jonathan David or Kolo Muani. This influx would undeniably squeeze Vlahovic out, making his exit a strategic necessity for the Bianconeri, who are keen to “monetize” his departure rather than lose him for free next year. Yet, offloading a player on such a lucrative contract to a direct rival is a delicate dance, to say the least.
Milan`s Unyielding Conditions
AC Milan, while keen on securing a reliable goal-scorer – someone capable of consistently netting around fifteen goals and challenging Gimenez for a starting spot – is operating under a clear financial directive. Their pursuit of Vlahovic is contingent upon two exceptionally precise conditions, which, from an outside perspective, might appear rather demanding:
- **A Severance Package from Juventus:** Milan expects Vlahovic to either be released by Juventus or acquired at an absolute bargain price. Crucially, this would likely involve Juventus paying the player a significant “buonuscita” (severance pay) to facilitate his departure and clear his considerable salary from their books. The irony here, for many observers, is palatable: a club potentially paying a player to leave, only for him to then join a direct Serie A competitor.
- **A Drastic Salary Cut:** Vlahovic must agree to halve his current €12 million net salary, accepting a wage closer to Milan`s financial parameters. This reduced base salary could then be supplemented with performance-related bonuses tied to team success (e.g., winning the league) and individual achievements (e.g., topping the goal-scoring charts). It`s a pragmatic offer, but one that asks a highly-paid athlete to significantly recalibrate his financial expectations.
The Rossoneri are not in a position to make a substantial transfer fee investment, especially as their immediate priorities also include bolstering their full-back positions and finalizing the acquisition of Jashari. Their recent absence from European competitions also factors into the allure – or lack thereof – for top-tier talents demanding premium wages.
The Alternatives and The Allegri Factor
While Vlahovic remains Milan`s top target under these very specific gravitational conditions, the club is keeping its options open. Inquiries have reportedly been made for Boniface of Bayer Leverkusen (valued at €40 million plus bonuses) and Jackson of Chelsea (with an even higher price tag). These alternatives underscore Milan`s commitment to finding a quality striker, but also highlight the unique nature of the Vlahovic situation, where a potentially lower transfer fee (or none at all) offsets the high salary demands.
Interestingly, Vlahovic`s strong relationship with former Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri is also a discussed point. Despite moments on the bench or early substitutions during their time together, Vlahovic reportedly holds Allegri in high regard and would be keen to work with him again. Allegri, for his part, is believed to see Vlahovic as an ideal fit in a front three alongside Rafael Leao (who Milan considers central to their project, despite external PSG links) and Christian Pulisic, forming a formidable attacking trio.
The Unfolding Saga
The stage is set for a captivating few weeks. While initiating a formal operation now might be “premature,” the dynamics are expected to shift significantly over the coming twenty days. Juventus`s need to restructure, Vlahovic`s desire for a new challenge, and Milan`s calculated, fiscally prudent approach create a complex, multi-layered negotiation. It`s a testament to the modern transfer market, where financial engineering often takes precedence over straightforward transactions. As the summer transfer window unfolds, the football world watches with bated breath to see if Milan`s audacious gamble on Dusan Vlahovic will pay off, transforming a high-salary enigma into a goal-scoring solution.
Elton Marrow