Arsenal continue to be linked with a move for Fiorentina striker Dusan Vlahovic.
The Serbian international has caught the eye for the Serie A club over recent seasons. He has already scored 18 goals in 21 appearances in all competitions this campaign.
A player of such talent would certainly give the Gunners attack a much-needed boost, having failed to fire a single shot on target in the north-Londoners’ embarrassing FA Cup defeat to Championship outfit Nottingham Forest.
Whilst Arsenal are in the hunt for his signature, they are not short of competition, with a number of prominent European clubs - as well as the nouveau-riche Newcastle - interested in the Serbian hitman.
Nevertheless, the Gunners could have been handed a perfect opportunity to secure his services with a number of major decisions having been made.
According to The Telegraph, the Magpies have already turned to alternative targets in an attempt to bolster their struggling squad - Burnley’s Chris Wood recently linked with a move to St James’ Park. Competition elsewhere in the Premier League also appears to be dwindling too.
Both Manchester City and Chelsea - who could well be contenders for Vlahovic - appear to be prioritising a move for Borussia Dortmund sensation Erling Haaland.
Reports have suggested that the current Premier League champions have firmed up their interest in the Norwegian, whilst the Blues have been linked with a swoop amid the uncertain future of Romelu Lukaku.
A move could also be on the cards within the year, with Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke having admitted that the German giants might not be able to keep Haaland at the Signal Iduna Park beyond the summer.
Talking to Der Spiegel, he said: “Next year? Of course, it will be difficult to keep him [Haaland]. Nevertheless we want to and we’ll try.”
Should both City and Chelsea make a play for Haaland, it seems unlikely that they will also attempt to secure Vlahovic. With less competition, Arsenal’s hand is only strengthened.
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Of course, it does not quite mean that the Gunners have a free run at signing Vlahovic - Juventus having also been credited with an interest, whilst the striker himself is apparently in 'no rush' to make a swift decision on his future.
Nevertheless, seeing they're direct contenders for his signature will only prove to be a boost to Arsenal and it is now down to the north Londoners to turn those initial links into a tangible move.
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