Juventus is facing a pivotal decision about the Serbian striker Dušan Vlahović. His contract expires in June 2026, and the team has limited time to either secure a transfer or renew the player’s contract.
The dilemma is all too common for teams that have to manage both the business side of things and build a roster. Should Juventus sell now to protect their balance sheet, or commit to building their next competitive cycle around their most recognizable attacking star? In this article, we’ll try to present both sides of that dilemma rather than just providing an answer.
Contract Reality and Financial Pressure
As the end of Vlahović’s contract approaches, he’s due for a pay increase. This would make him one of the top earners in the Series A. Juventus is operating under a stricter wage structure following its recent financial restructuring and needs to evaluate whether this commitment aligns with its future plans.
The media has already reported that talks on the contract renewal have stalled, and that the two sides can’t agree on contract terms or salary. If there’s no extension, the club will lose leverage in the transfer market. The transfer needs to be completed by this summer if Juventus plans to ease financial pressure.
Performance: Star Striker or Underwhelming Investment?
Vlahović arrived from Fiorentina in 2022 for a fee of €70 million. Ever since he delivered great numbers, scored regularly, and often carried the team. This is reflected in the odds from the best crypto sports betting site, which always favor Vlahović. Sites such as these allow players to wager on individual players’ scores and to do so without providing personal information.
However, during his time in Turin, Vlahović has also sustained injuries, undergone tactical changes, and had uneven form. Critics claim that all of these problems were taken into account, and that Vlahović wasn’t worth the substantial fee. Supporters, on the other hand, say the problem lies in the broader offensive strategy.
Market Interest and Transfer Scenarios
Despite the conflicting perception, Vlahović is still an attractive option for many European teams. Premier League teams, as well as Bayern Munich and other Champions League contenders, have been in talks about the transfer. Juventus could end up getting a fee in the region of €50–60 million. However, high wages somewhat limit the pool of teams that could sign Vlahović.
It’s been widely reported that Vlahović won’t accept any pay cut and that there’s little room for negotiation on this. Therefore, interested teams could just wait until June 2026 and sign Vlahović when his contract with Juventus expires.
Squad Evolution: Does He Still Fit the Project?
The problems with Vlahović’s contract reflect broader problems Juventus is facing with its squad strategy. The team has started relying on younger players to cut its wage bill. Emerging talents such as Kenan Yıldız will play a more prominent role in the team’s future.
The tactical approach will also have to change to reflect this change. The focus will be on greater fluidity, with interchangeable attackers. Within that context, there’s also a question of how Vlahović would stylistically fit into the new strategy.
Arguments for Cashing In
From a business perspective, the case for selling is clear. Moving Vlahović right now would allow Juventus to profit from one of its best assets while also reducing wage expenses. The transfer fee could also be used to reinvest across multiple positions.
Juventus is trying to move towards more financial discipline, and this move will show they are serious about it. It’s also a proactive decision given the strategy changes the team plans to implement.
Arguments for Building Around Him
On the other hand, an elite goal scorer in his mid-twenties is expensive and hard to find. Vlahović is 26 now and entering his prime. He’s one of the few players able to score in the double digits on a season level, and many feel it would be a shame for Juventus to let him go.
With improved creativity behind him and a stable tactical environment, Vlahović has a lot to offer to the team, and his output could still increase. Selling him without having a replacement ready could weaken the team’s offense.
To Sum Up
Dušan Vlahović is at the center of a dilemma Juventus is facing. His contract expires in June, and it doesn’t seem that Vlahović and Juventus can agree on his salary for a renewed stint. It seems that the team will have to sell before June or face losing one of its most important assets.
Many believe that Vlahović could be part of a changed, improved Juventus roster, with a focus on younger players and greater creativity in the offense. However, the salary issue remains open.
