Manchester United to rival Chelsea for transfer as they plot £61 million move for Serie A star: Reports
Manchester United are reportedly set to provide competition to Chelsea in the race to sign Juventus star Dusan Vlahovic in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Vlahovic, 23, has struggled to shine at Juventus since arriving from Fiorentina for a fee of £71 million in 2022. Despite netting 41 goals in one-and-a-half seasons prior to his move, he has failed to replicate his old form in Turin.
A left-footed towering striker blessed with shooting and strength, the 21-cap Serbia international has found life difficult under Bianconeri boss Massimiliano Allegri. He has scored just 14 goals in 41 games so far this campaign.
According to Football Transfers, Manchester United have decided to reignite their winter interest in Vlahovic ahead of the upcoming 2023-24 season. Erik ten Hag is said to be a huge admirer of the Serb's physical attributes.
Manchester United are keen to add a first-choice striker to their ranks this summer to fill the void left by Cristiano Ronaldo's exit last year. They are willing to dish out £61 million to rope in the Partizan Belgrade youth product.
Chelsea are also interested in snapping Vlahovic up to address their number nine crisis. However, a potential permanent switch is unlikely as the player has clarified his wish to join a UEFA Champions League-qualified club.
Vlahovic, who has a contract until June 2026 at the Allianz Stadium, would emerge as a crucial starter for Chelsea should he join them. He could displace Kai Havertz and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the club's pecking order.
Overall, Vlahovic has scored 23 goals and provided six assists in 62 games across all competitions for Juventus.
Manchester United and Chelsea target available for hefty price: Reports
According to Football Insider, Inter Milan are willing to entertain offers in the region of £69.5 million for Lautaro Martinez's services amid links from Manchester United and Chelsea. They are interested in offloading him to raise funds.
Martinez, 25, has established himself as an indispensable player for the Nerazzurri since arriving from Racing Club for over £20 million in 2018. So far, he has helped them lift a total of four trophies, including the 2020-21 Serie A title.
A right-footed clinical finisher blessed with pace and heading, Martinez has turned a lot of heads with his eye-catching performances for Simone Inzaghi's side in the ongoing 2022-23 season. He has guided his team to the UEFA Champions League and the Coppa Italia finals so far, registering 25 goals and 10 assists in 53 games in the process.