As the transfer window reaches its halfway point, clubs are scrambling to secure suitable replacements and land their priority signings before the commencement of next season. One of the clubs who have been under the spotlight in the transfer window is the Spanish giants, Real Madrid.
From the departure of one of the greatest goal scorers in Karim Benzema to the arrival of the 20-year-old Jude Bellingham for a record-breaking fee, the Los Blancos seemingly have done it all.
Following the exit of their number nine, the Spanish giants are actively exploring options in the attacking department. While closely monitoring the uncertain Kylian Mbappe situation, Real Madrid is also considering alternatives, such as pursuing Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic.
Madrid eyeing £77m transfer move for Dusan Vlahovic
With several clubs looking for a number 9, Dusan Vlahovic is expected to be linked with several clubs. In the winter of 2022, Juventus reached an agreement with their Italian rivals Fiorentina for the transfer of the Serbian striker, in a deal worth $77 million, plus $11 million in performance-related bonuses. Despite a somewhat underwhelming season, where the 23-year-old scored 10 goals in 27 Serie A matches, several clubs are in the race to sign the striker.
According to Italian reports, the Juventus hierarchy rejected an initial bid of $66 million from Chelsea and is demanding a fee of $99 million for their number 9. Following the major blow faced by the Blues, Los Blancos are exploring the possibility of signing Vlahovic this summer. Reports suggest that the Bernabeu manager Carlo Ancelotti has personally contacted the Serbian to discuss a potential move to the Spanish capital.
🚨| Carlo Ancelotti called & enquired about Dušan Vlahović. Juventus will only sell him for a huge offer. @SkySports #rmalive 🇷🇸 pic.twitter.com/On35I9P2DA
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) July 20, 2023
Why did Benzema leave Real Madrid?
After a stint of 14 years at the Bernabeu, Karim Benzema’s exit came as a surprise to many fans. Real Madrid signed the Frenchman in 2009 from the French club Lyon for a fee of $38 million plus $6 million in add-ons. Throughout his illustrious tenure in Madrid, the 35-year-old striker played 354 matches while scoring 165 goals, making him the club’s second-highest goal scorer, behind Cristiano Ronaldo.
Following his career-best season in 2021/22, the Ballon d’Or winner experienced a decline in the subsequent season. In the 2022/23 season, the French international played just 24 La Liga games compared to the previous season’s 32, primarily due to injuries impacting his performance.
Ultimately, the injuries also did not allow him to represent his nation at the World Cup. Considering the toll on his body and an enticing offer from a Gulf nation, Karim Benzema decided to accept the lucrative contract.
Despite Real Madrid actively looking for striker options, the void left after the departure of Karim Benzema is hard to fill. Among the names under consideration to strengthen their attacking department, Dusan Vlahovic emerges as arguably the most attainable target for the club.
