As the summer transfer window inches towards its dramatic conclusion, the air in Milan is thick with speculation, strategic meetings, and the palpable urgency of a club in need of a prolific striker. Following a rather unexpected stumble against Cremonese, AC Milan`s attacking deficiencies have become starkly apparent. In response, a familiar figure has emerged as the unequivocal priority on Massimiliano Allegri`s wishlist: Dusan Vlahovic, the powerful Serbian forward from Juventus.
Allegri`s Unwavering Conviction
In a world where football loyalties often shift faster than a well-placed through ball, some bonds remain surprisingly steadfast. For AC Milan, and specifically their tactician Massimiliano Allegri, that bond appears to be with a certain Serbian striker. Reports from within Casa Milan confirm a recent high-level transfer meeting involving Allegri and Technical Director, Tare. The discussion, as expected, centered heavily on reinforcing the frontline, and Allegri`s message was unambiguous: Vlahovic is his primary choice.
This isn`t a new infatuation. Allegri has previously coached Vlahovic at Juventus, understanding intimately the striker`s capabilities, work ethic, and potential contribution. He knows precisely what the Serbian international can bring to his tactical setup—a crucial advantage when time is of the essence and immediate impact is required. The comfort of working with a known quantity, especially one as potent as Vlahovic, seems to outweigh other considerations for the Rossoneri coach.
Vlahovic`s Crossroads: Ambition vs. Remuneration
On the other side of this high-stakes negotiation is Dusan Vlahovic himself, currently navigating a pivotal moment in his career. Despite a dinner engagement with Parma, his focus remains squarely on the transfer market, with Milan undoubtedly occupying a significant portion of his thoughts. Vlahovic, acutely aware of Milan`s potential to revitalize his trajectory, is reportedly eager for the Rossoneri to make their move.
The complexities, however, are substantial:
- Juventus Contract: Vlahovic has reportedly signaled his disinterest in renewing his current deal with Juventus, which expires in the near future. The Bianconeri`s “logical proposals at a discount” reflect their desire to manage his significant wage bill.
- Salary Expectations: This season, Vlahovic is set to earn a hefty €12 million net. He has firmly rejected lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia and Jose Mourinho`s Fenerbahçe, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to his current financial terms and, perhaps more tellingly, his desire to remain in top-tier European football.
- Allegri`s Influence: The enduring connection with Allegri is a powerful magnet. Vlahovic knows his former coach champions him behind the scenes, and a “right offer” from Milan, despite the financial tightrope, would likely receive a positive response.
Milan`s Attacking Conundrum: Beyond Vlahovic
While Vlahovic remains Allegri`s gold standard, Milan`s strategic planners are, predictably, exploring alternatives. Victor Boniface, previously considered, has returned to Germany, though a return to Milan on a “free loan or little more” is not entirely off the table. Other names like Conrad Harder, a left-footed striker with a significantly lower price tag and less experience than Vlahovic, are also circulating.
The urgency stems from more than just a single match result. The club has long identified the need for a definitive attacking solution. The decision to prioritize Vlahovic indicates a willingness to invest significantly, but only if the financial parameters can be meticulously aligned. It`s a delicate balance between sporting ambition and fiscal prudence, a narrative all too common in modern football transfers.
The Clock is Ticking
With only a week remaining in the transfer window, the pressure on Milan`s hierarchy to deliver a top-tier striker is immense. Allegri has laid his cards on the table, expressing a clear preference for a player he knows can deliver. Vlahovic, for his part, appears receptive to the idea of a move that could reignite his form and career. The critical question now is whether AC Milan can construct a proposal that satisfies both Juventus`s valuation and Vlahovic`s considerable salary demands, all while adhering to their own financial framework.
The coming days promise to be a fascinating blend of negotiations, high-level discussions, and perhaps, a last-minute scramble. Will Allegri get his man? Or will Milan be forced to pivot, seeking a different solution to their attacking woes? Only time, and a well-placed signature, will tell if this ambitious reunion truly comes to fruition.
