Manchester United are reportedly considering an alternative for Benjamin Sesko already, as Dusan Vlahovic reemerges as a potential transfer target.
The Red Devils completed their new-look attacking trident by signing the Slovenian from RB Leipzig for circa £74 million.
The physically imposing centre-forward is supposed to spearhead an attack, supported by fellow new signings Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. However, the 22-year-old has yet to open his account for the club.
Man Utd still reflecting on Dusan Vlahovic option amidst Sesko struggles
While passing judgment on Sesko remains wildly immature, some fear that he could go down the Rasmus Hojlund path, as a young striker who finds himself out of his depth at Old Trafford.
Therefore, Man Utd might consider pairing the Slovenia international with a more accomplished profile, which could ease some of the pressure off his broad shoulders.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus are still hoping to sell Vlahovic in January, with United and Chelsea keeping close tabs on the situation.
Vlahovic has been on Man Utd’s radar for quite some time now, but a deal never materialised.
The Serbian striker is running on an expiring contract, so the Serie A giants had already tried, unsuccessfully, to offload him last summer. Juve also signed two replacements for Vlahovic, acquiring the services of Jonathan David on a free transfer, while recruiting Sesko’s former Leipzig teammate, Loic Openda, on deadline day.
So even though Vlahovic has been the club’s top goalscorer this season (4 goals from 5 appearances), the Italian club has maintained the same stance, as they prefer to sell the bomber in January in return for a relatively small transfer fee, rather than losing him for free at the end of the season.
Why signing Vlahovic won’t be easy for Man United
While United wouldn’t be troubled by the player’s transfer fee, it should be remembered that Vlahovic’s hefty salary was the main reason why Juventus struggled to find him a buyer.
The 25-year-old’s yearly salary has now reached €12 million thanks to a lucrative loyalty bonus. The former Fiorentina striker is now the league’s highest earner by far, hence why he was in no rush to leave Turin last summer.
Hence, it remains to be seen if the ‘lightning’ forward would be willing to change his stance in January as his contract nears its expiry date.
