Latest developments
- Chelsea have Dusan Vlahovic on their shortlist for a new centre-forward.
- The Juventus man is also being tracked by Arsenal.
- The Serbian is seen as a cheaper alternative to Alexander Isak.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2/5): Blues linked with everyone
Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic is on Chelsea's shortlist as they prepare to enter the market for a new centre-forward, with Arsenal also interested in the 24-year-old.
This is being reported by caughtoffside.com, who give no source information and list Vlahovic, Viktor Gyokeres and Victor Osimhen as alternatives to the Blues' main target, Alexander Isak. Vlahovic could be on the list, or maybe any and every striker is being linked to Stamford Bridge.
Value (3/5): Not Isak money, but not cheap
A supposed £83 million asking price for Isak is said to be off-putting to the Blues and Gunners, hence the list of alternatives.
Vlahovic is said to be worth around £62 million to Juve, for whom Vlahovic has averaged better than a goal every other game this campaign. That is higher than his £54 million market valuation, though not an extortionate amount, especially given how important he is to the Turin side.
Suitability (4/5): Versatile goalscorer
A target man who has plenty of speed and power to boot, Vlahovic has spent his whole career up front, but has variety to his game. That will make him flexible for an Enzo Maresca where he can get on the end of crosses or link up with midfielders who dominate in the final third.
Five goals in 11 career UEFA Champions League games suggests he can step up to the Premier League.
Upgrade? (3.5/5): Jackson goes under the radar
Nicolas Jackson may not be many people's idea of a world class striker, but eight goals in 13 Premier League appearances has gone some way to silence his doubters of late.
Chelsea would clearly see Vlahovic as an upgrade if they want to spend that kind of money on him, but would they be better buying a cheaper option as back-up to Jackson?
Logic (3/5): Suitable Isak alternative
If Isak is Chelsea's top target, then it would make sense for them to be interested in a forward of Vlahovic's calibre if they cannot land the Swede.
The former Partizan Belgrade and Fiorentina man is under contract until summer 2026, so he won't be desperate to settle his future just yet, but wanting a fresh challenge after six years in Italy cannot be ruled out.
Whisper+ verdict: 15.5/25
There seems to be little concrete in this rumour for now, but it would not be a surprise if Chelsea are not keeping tabs on the Serbian at the very least.
