Man United set to battle Real Madrid in the race to sign 25-year-old striker – Report | OneFootball

Real Madrid See Dusan Vlahovic as Key Market Opportunity

Madrid Enter the Race

Real Madrid are considering a move for Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, viewing him as “an unbeatable market opportunity.” The Serbian forward, out of contract at the end of the season, has become one of Europe’s most in-demand players. Spanish outlet Fichajes report that Los Blancos see him as a dream signing and have maintained contact with his entourage since summer 2025, as reported by TeamTalk.

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United’s Transfer Regret

Manchester United could be left regretting their decision to pass on Vlahovic in favour of Benjamin Sesko. Recruitment chief Christopher Vivell was instrumental in bringing Sesko from RB Leipzig, convincing manager Ruben Amorim that the Slovenian would be the ideal long-term striker. TeamTalk note that “Vlahovic was offered to United before they secured Sesko, but they opted against signing him,” a choice that now appears questionable given Vlahovic’s form.

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Form That Demands Attention

Vlahovic’s numbers underline why top clubs are circling. He has scored twice in just 111 Serie A minutes this season and added another brace in a thrilling 4-4 Champions League draw against Borussia Dortmund. Such form has reignited interest from Manchester United, who are reportedly competing with Atletico Madrid and Barcelona for his signature.

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Madrid’s Strategic View

For Madrid, the appeal is twofold. His arrival would provide a physical presence to complement their attacking options and allow Kylian Mbappe “valuable rest” during a congested schedule. Xabi Alonso is said to view him as the kind of striker who can occupy centre-backs and dominate the penalty area.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

This entire saga feels like another missed opportunity that United may try to rectify too late. Many supporters still question the club’s recruitment decisions, and this case will only add to that debate. Christopher Vivell’s backing of Sesko made sense on paper, but if Vlahovic ends up firing Madrid or another European rival to glory, it will be another example of United moving too conservatively in the market.

There is also the concern that chasing Vlahovic now will simply inflate his price and lead to another protracted transfer battle. Fans are tired of seeing United linked to players for months only to be outbid or delayed into overpaying. Some argue that if United truly believed he was the right player, they should have acted decisively when he was offered to them in the first place.

A late scramble for Vlahovic could expose United’s lack of forward planning and leave Sesko under unnecessary pressure. If United want to compete with Madrid and Barcelona, they need to stop reacting to other clubs’ moves and start setting the agenda.