Free-agent forward set to decide his future imminently as Barcelona dream remains alive | OneFootball

Dusan Vlahovic is approaching a decisive moment in his career. The Serbian striker wants his future settled during the first week of August so he can begin pre-season preparations with his new club rather than waiting until the final days of the transfer window, reports SPORT.

The 26-year-old is currently weighing up an improved offer from Besiktas, who have returned with a more attractive proposal that includes a signing bonus and a two-year contract.

The Turkish club are looking for a swift response, leaving Vlahovic with a major decision to make if he does not want to lose what is currently his strongest concrete option.

Despite that, the striker continues to hold onto his ambition of playing for Barcelona and is willing to lower his financial demands if the Catalan club decides to pursue a deal.

Limited contact with Barcelona

Vlahovic became a free agent on 30 June after leaving Juventus, although discussions over a possible contract renewal continued for several weeks before ultimately breaking down.

Still hanging on to the Barcelona dream. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

Juventus have since signed Randal Kolo Muani from PSG, effectively ending any possibility of the Serbian returning to Turin.

Throughout the summer, Vlahovic made it clear to those around him that he would only significantly reduce his salary expectations for an elite club such as Barcelona.

The Catalans’ initial contact came earlier in the transfer window through people close to the player.

The club’s sporting department gathered information regarding the financial demands but chose not to move forward, believing he was not a priority and considering the requested package too expensive.

At the time, Vlahovic was seeking a two-year contract worth around €8 million net per season, along with a signing bonus and commissions for his representatives. Barcelona listened but took no further action.

Financial demands have changed

As the transfer window has progressed, Barcelona have received indications that Vlahovic is now prepared to negotiate on more flexible terms.

Willing to make financial sacrifices. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Although the club has not advanced discussions, they have left the door open to the possibility that his profile could become more attractive if other attacking targets become unavailable.

That message has encouraged Vlahovic to remain patient as the Blaugrana’s options in the striker market have gradually narrowed.

Waiting on Barcelona’s Next Move

The striker now faces a choice between accepting Besiktas’s proposal or waiting a little longer in the hope that Barcelona finally make their move.

The Catalan club are still focused on their pursuit of Julian Alvarez, although they could withdraw their offer in the coming days if negotiations fail to progress.

Barcelona are also waiting for Ferran Torres to make a decision regarding his own future.

Should Ferran leave this summer, the club could look to sign a second forward, a scenario that would significantly improve Vlahovic’s chances of finally fulfilling his long-held dream of playing at Camp Nou.