Juventus Stuck in Transfer Deadlock as Vlahovic Refuses to Leave
Juventus are facing a growing transfer crisis this summer as Dusan Vlahovic refuses to leave, despite the club’s best efforts to move him. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Serbian striker has rejected all offers, including one from Turkish giants Fenerbahçe, and intends to see out his contract until 2026.
Vlahovic currently earns €12 million net per year, making him one of the highest-paid players in Serie A. Juventus, keen to reduce their wage bill and restructure the squad, had hoped to either offload him or extend his contract on lower terms. But the 24-year-old has made it clear—he’s not going anywhere.
No Transfer, No Salary Room
This standoff is now impacting Juventus’ summer transfer ambitions. The club had reportedly lined up a move for Jonathan David, the Canadian forward who recently left Lille as a free agent. However, with Vlahovic refusing to budge and no salary space available, the deal for David is currently on hold.
This situation leaves Juventus’ board in a tough spot. Without clearing Vlahovic’s hefty wages, new signings or contract extensions for other players become nearly impossible. The club risks a stalled rebuild just when new manager Thiago Motta is preparing for his first full season.
Stubborn No. 9 Blocking Summer Plans
Vlahovic’s determination to remain, even at the cost of playing time, presents a unique dilemma. The club could bench him or send him to the stands, but doing so could create tension in the locker room and with fans. It’s a game of financial chicken, and Juventus might be forced to blink first.
This standoff marks a critical moment in Juventus’ transfer strategy, as the board tries to reshape the squad without compromising its financial recovery.
What This Means for Juventus
If the situation persists, Juventus could miss out on more than just Jonathan David. Other targets may also become inaccessible due to budget constraints. It’s a bitter pill to swallow for a club that once ruled Europe’s elite with decisive transfer market moves.
Unless a breakthrough occurs, Juventus will have to navigate the 2025/26 season with an unhappy striker on their books and minimal flexibility to strengthen the squad.
