While the January transfer window has only just closed, Newcastle United is already looking toward the summer with massive ambitions. The club has reportedly made early contact regarding a blockbuster deal for Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic.
With the Serbian international likely to leave Italy at the end of the season, the Magpies are positioning themselves at the front of a very prestigious queue. This move signals that Eddie Howe and the Newcastle hierarchy are not content with minor adjustments; they want a world-class focal point for their attack.
Vlahovic is currently on the sidelines with an injury and is not expected to return to the pitch until March. Despite this temporary setback, his stock remains incredibly high across Europe. Before his injury derailed his progress, he started the season in clinical form, netting six goals in all competitions for the Italian giants.
However, his contract situation in Turin has reached a critical point. His current deal is set to expire in 2026, and with no signs of a renewal on the horizon, Juventus is increasingly open to a sale to avoid losing him for a reduced fee next year.
The financial reality for Juventus is a major driver in this potential transfer. Vlahovic is currently the highest earner at the club, taking home a staggering €12 million per season. In the current economic climate of Serie A, that wage bill is a heavy burden for the Bianconeri.
Reports from Italy suggest that while AC Milan is very interested in keeping the striker in Italy, they simply cannot compete with the financial might of the Premier League. Newcastle, on the other hand, is one of the few clubs with the capacity to absorb such a high salary while staying within the league’s spending regulations.
| Potential Transfer Details | Dusan Vlahovic |
| Current Club | Juventus |
| Age | 26 |
| Contract Expiry | June 2026 |
| Current Annual Salary | €12 Million |
| Interested Parties | Newcastle, Chelsea, AC Milan |
| Expected Return from Injury | March 2026 |
Newcastle’s recruitment team has already reached out to enquire about the total costs involved in a summer deal. This early groundwork is a hallmark of the club’s new strategy under their current ownership.
By starting the dialogue now, they can understand Vlahovic’s personal demands and the transfer fee Juventus will require before the market becomes even more competitive in July. It is a smart move, especially since other heavyweights like Chelsea have also begun sniffing around for information.
The battle for Vlahovic’s signature is becoming a complex game of chess. AC Milan’s manager, Max Allegri, is reportedly desperate to reunite with the striker and has tasked his sporting director, Igli Tare, with opening lines of communication.
While Tare has a strong relationship with Vlahovic’s representatives, the “Rossoneri” are facing significant financial hurdles. They simply do not have the same liquid capital as their English rivals. This puts Newcastle in a very strong position. If the deal comes down to which club can provide the best financial package for both the player and Juventus, the advantage lies firmly with Tyneside.
For Newcastle, signing Vlahovic would be a statement of intent that resonates throughout world football. At 26, the Serbian is entering his prime years. He is a traditional “number nine” who offers physical presence, elite finishing, and a high work rate qualities that perfectly align with Eddie Howe’s tactical philosophy. Pairing him with the creative talents already at the club could transform Newcastle into genuine title contenders.
Of course, there is still a long way to go before any papers are signed. Vlahovic first needs to prove his fitness when he returns in March, and Newcastle will need to ensure they secure a European spot to make the move attractive to a player of his caliber.
However, the fact that the club is already doing the “heavy lifting” in February shows that they are thinking several steps ahead. They aren’t just waiting for opportunities to happen; they are actively creating them.
As the summer approaches, the race for Vlahovic will likely intensify. But for now, Newcastle fans can be encouraged by the news that their club is being proactive. They are doing the early work to ensure that when the window opens, they aren’t just part of the conversation they are leading it. This isn’t just about adding a player; it’s about adding a superstar who can lead the line for years to come.
