Newcastle given green light to sign Dusan Vlahovic after Juventus confirmation
Newcastle United can make their move for Dusan Vlahovic after it was confirmed he would not be signing a new contract at Juventus.
Juventus director Giorgio Chiellini confirmed that Vlahovic will “not stay in Italy,” due to the striker wanting to increase his salary.
That means the 26-year-old will be a free agent this summer, in what is a perfect scenario for Newcastle, who need to sign a new number nine.
Eddie Howe has not been rewarded for spending over £100million on both Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa last summer, with the pair scoring just 14 goals between them this season.
Newcastle’s spending was criticised last summer, and Howe has other positions which he also needs to strengthen in.
Will Osula not yet ready to be Newcastle star
Sources told Football Insider that Newcastle would be targeting Vlahovic this summer, as Howe can not continue to rely on Will Osula up-front.
Vlahovic has netted over 10 goals in each of the last four seasons for Juventus in all competitions, and has experience in the Champions League.
Whilst 22-year-old Osula had a bright end to the campaign for the Magpies, Howe would be taking a major risk by not signing a new striker this summer.
Newcastle look ready to sell either Wissa or Woltemade in order to free up space in their wage bill, and bring in funds for more additions.
The departure of Anthony Gordon down the flank, means Howe will need another forward in order to provide the service to Vlahovic to score goals.
What could stop Dusan Vlahovic joining Newcastle?
Newcastle will still face plenty of competition to sign Vlahovic this summer, and no European football at St James’ Park next season could harm their chances of fending off competition for his signature.
The Magpies’ 12th-placed Premier League finish means Howe will face a tough task convincing Vlahovic to join the club over sides with Champions League football on offer.
That is also set to harm Howe when it comes to trying to keep his key players at the club, like midfielder Sando Tonali.
Howe though is in need of a striker, and he should do all he can to tempt Vlahovic to Newcastle in order to fulfil the club's ambitious plans.