Contract talks have stalled in Turin, with Dusan Vlahovic convinced bigger opportunities could arrive this summer despite Juventus’ renewed faith in him.
Just when Dušan Vlahović appeared ready to reclaim a central role at Juventus FC, uncertainty surrounding his future has once again taken center stage.
The Serbian striker returned from injury, immediately found the net against Hellas Verona FC, and is now pushing for a starting spot this weekend against U.S. Lecce. On the field, confidence is growing. Off the field, however, relations between player and club remain increasingly tense.
Juventus are trying to map out the next phase of their project under Luciano Spalletti, who views Vlahovic as a key figure in the club’s attempt to return to genuine Serie A title contention next season. But while the coach wants clarity, the striker is in no rush to commit.
Vlahovic’s current deal expires in June 2027, yet negotiations over a renewal have failed to produce meaningful progress. Juventus executives have reportedly proposed a new financial package comparable to the contract recently given to Kenan Yıldız — roughly €6 million per season plus bonuses — but the offer has not convinced the Serbian camp.
The reason is simple: Vlahovic believes the market will move in his direction.
The former ACF Fiorentina star is convinced that one of Europe’s heavyweight clubs could make a serious approach once the summer transfer window opens. Internally, people close to the player see potential scenarios involving clubs like FC Bayern Munich, where he could eventually work behind Harry Kane, or even FC Barcelona, with questions continuing to surround the long-term future of Robert Lewandowski.
That belief has created a growing standoff.
Juventus cannot afford to wait indefinitely while planning next season’s attack. The club needs certainty to identify transfer targets and define its strategy early in the summer. Executives at Continassa are prepared to hold another meeting with Vlahovic and his father Milos before the end of May, but internally there is increasing awareness that a final decision will soon be necessary.
For now, neither side appears ready to fully back down.
Vlahovic still feels deeply attached to Juventus after arriving in Turin in January 2022, and those around him insist his respect for the club and supporters has never changed. At the same time, the striker is equally convinced that his profile remains highly attractive across Europe — especially for clubs searching for a top-level forward entering his prime years.
Spalletti’s opinion may ultimately become one of the decisive factors.
The Juventus coach has consistently defended Vlahovic throughout the season, appreciating both his professionalism and commitment despite the constant speculation surrounding his future. Their relationship is built on mutual trust, and Spalletti still believes the Serbian can become the focal point of his new-look Juventus project.
But first, Juventus need goals — and quickly.
Saturday’s match in Lecce could become pivotal in the race for Champions League qualification, and Vlahovic is expected to start for the first time since late November, when injury interrupted his season against Cagliari Calcio.
The timing matters for everyone involved.
For Juventus, Champions League qualification is essential financially and strategically. For Vlahovic, the final weeks of the season could shape the biggest decision of his career. A strong finish would strengthen his leverage whether he stays in Turin or decides to pursue the elite European move he still believes is waiting for him.
One thing is certain: Juventus no longer have the luxury of endless patience.
