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Liverpool weigh up Dusan Vlahovic move amid high wage demands

Liverpool’s long-term planning in the forward market has brought Dusan Vlahovic back into focus, with the Juventus striker emerging as a potential option ahead of the summer window. However, any realistic assessment of a deal is shaped as much by finances as football, with Vlahovic’s high wages presenting a significant obstacle.

The 25-year-old Serbia international is approaching the final stretch of his contract in Turin, and Juventus are increasingly resigned to the prospect of losing him without a substantial transfer fee. That context has alerted clubs across Europe, Liverpool included, but the economics of the situation are far from straightforward.

Contract situation shapes Liverpool interest

Vlahovic’s current deal runs until 2026, leaving Juventus with limited leverage. Sources in Italy suggest there is no appetite at the club to extend his contract on existing terms, with his salary already among the highest in Serie A. Juventus have made it clear that renewal would require a sizeable reduction, a stance that has stalled talks and accelerated external interest.

From Liverpool’s perspective, the attraction is obvious. A forward entering his prime, available either at a reduced fee or potentially as a free agent in the near future, aligns with the club’s preference for value in the market. Recruitment staff continue to monitor Vlahovic’s situation closely, aware that timing will be critical if a deal is to be explored seriously.

That said, Liverpool’s internal modelling places strict limits on wage structures, particularly for new arrivals. Any move for Vlahovic would require careful negotiation to ensure his salary fits within existing parameters.

High wages remain major stumbling block

Vlahovic is reported to earn in excess of £19m per year, a figure that immediately narrows the field of potential suitors. For Liverpool, whose wage strategy prioritises balance and sustainability, matching those terms would represent a significant departure from established policy.

This is the central tension in any potential transfer. While Liverpool have shown a willingness to invest heavily in transfer fees when the right profile becomes available, high wages are viewed as a longer-term risk, capable of distorting the dressing-room hierarchy and limiting future flexibility.

As things stand, there is little indication that Liverpool would be prepared to meet Vlahovic’s current salary demands. Any progress would likely depend on the player accepting a revised package, potentially offset by performance-related incentives rather than a guaranteed top-end wage.

Fitness record and recent form under scrutiny

Beyond finances, Liverpool’s analysis also extends to availability and output. Vlahovic has endured an inconsistent spell at Juventus, punctuated by injuries that have disrupted momentum. This season he has scored six goals in all competitions, a return that has raised questions about whether he represents the level of reliability Liverpool require from a central striker.

The club’s data-led approach places heavy emphasis on durability and repeatable performance, particularly given the physical demands of the Premier League. While Vlahovic’s profile as a powerful, penalty-box forward is well established, recent fitness concerns add another layer of caution to Liverpool’s thinking.

Those concerns do not rule him out entirely, but they do reinforce the need for a favourable overall deal if Liverpool are to proceed.

Summer market decisions ahead

Liverpool’s forward planning suggests that further attacking reinforcements will be considered next summer, especially with the squad already containing multiple senior options in central areas. Any addition would need to represent a clear upgrade or a strategic opportunity too good to ignore.

Vlahovic sits firmly in that category of conditional target. The talent is recognised, the contract situation is appealing, but the high wages remain the defining issue. Unless there is movement on that front, Liverpool are likely to keep their distance, even as interest from elsewhere develops.

For now, the situation is best described as one to watch rather than one nearing resolution. Liverpool remain informed, Juventus remain under pressure, and Vlahovic’s future looks increasingly likely to be decided by compromise rather than ambition alone.