26-year-old Juventus star close to two-year extension after Barcelona door closes – Report | OneFootball

The need for a new striker at Barcelona this summer has been well documented. Robert Lewandowski is advancing in age and is no longer performing at the same level, while Ferran Torres has tapered off after a strong start to the season.

Because of this situation, several forwards across different price ranges have been linked with a potential move to Camp Nou. One of the names that emerged as a possible option was Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus.

The Serbian striker even offered himself to Barcelona earlier in the season as his contract situation in Turin began to draw attention across Europe. With his current deal approaching its final stage, the 26-year-old was seen as a potential market opportunity who could arrive without a transfer fee, something that naturally caught the attention of Barcelona’s sporting department.

The Catalan club did evaluate the possibility and monitored the striker’s situation closely. However, Barcelona ultimately decided against making a move and said no to the Serbian goalscorer several weeks ago.

According to SPORT, that decision could have a direct effect on the player’s future. With Barcelona no longer an option, Vlahovic and his representatives have now opened negotiations with Juventus over a contract renewal.

Talks between the player’s entourage and the Italian club are reportedly already advanced. Juventus are proposing a two-year extension worth around €7 million per season, significantly lower than the approximately €12 million salary Vlahovic currently earns.

Despite periods of limited playing time this season, the striker is said to feel comfortable in Turin and values the support of the coaching staff. With the Barcelona door now closed, the likelihood of Vlahovic renewing his contract with Juventus has increased considerably.

From Barcelona’s perspective, the stance makes sense. While Vlahovic offers a strong physical profile and proven goalscoring ability, he may not be seen as the ideal stylistic fit for the kind of forward line the club wants to build going forward.

The Catalans appear to be weighing other attacking options instead of committing to the Juventus man simply because he could be available without a transfer fee.

For now, then, Barcelona look set to move in a different direction and, hopefully, it is towards a certain Galatasaray number nine.