Arsenal could now face a fight to sign Rasmus Hojlund from Atalanta BC come the summer transfer window. Juventus are now scouting the striker to possibly replace Dusan Vlahovic.
Reports by La Repubblica earlier this week claimed that Arsenal are preparing to submit a ‘monstrous’ offer for Hojlund. The 20-year-old has captivated clubs around Europe with his form since moving to Bergamo in September. He joined from Sturm Graz for €17m (£15m).
The Denmark U21 international only played 21 first-team fixtures with the Austrian side but bagged 12 goals and four assists. Hojlund has already now matched his number of outings at Atalanta. He also has seven goals and two assists in all competitions for the Serie A side.
Juventus now join Arsenal among the clubs interested in Rasmus Hojlund’s transfer
But impressing for Atalanta has attracted Arsenal and Real Madrid to show serious interest in a transfer for Hojlund. While Chronicle Live also reports that Newcastle United’s head of recruitment, Steve Nickson, has instructed the Magpies’ scouts to keep tabs on his efforts.
Yet Arsenal may face further competition in Juventus if they target a transfer with Atalanta for Hojlund this summer. That is according to Calciomercato, which reports the Bianconeri view the forward as an interesting replacement for Vlahovic should they need to sell him.
Juventus are aware that failure to qualify for the Champions League for next season would decimate their finances. The Turin natives sit seventh in Serie A after 23 fixtures with a 12-point deficit to the elite UEFA places following Italy’s football federation docking 15 points.
Mikel Arteta could sign Dusan Vlahovic if Atalanta ace Rasmus Hojlund goes to Turin
Bianconeri chiefs believe winning the Europa League this season will likely be their easiest route to the Champions League. But failing to do so would raise questions over Vlahovic’s future. The Serbia striker could generate €90-100m (£79-88m) during the transfer market.
So, Juventus are also now scouting Hojlund intensively having identified the Atalanta star as an ideal replacement for Vlahovic. Allianz Stadium chiefs have also made initial contact with the forward’s agent to test the waters. But Atalanta are likely to want around €45m (£39.5m).
Borussia Dortmund also admire Hojlund to further thwart Juventus’ pursuit, alongside the interest of Arsenal and Real Madrid in a transfer with Atalanta. Yet the Bianconeri landing the Denmark prospect could still see Mikel Arteta land one of the Gunners’ striker targets.
Prior reports by Calciomercato have claimed that Arsenal have already spoken with Darko Ristic, the agent of Vlahovic, over a transfer for the Juventus star. Chelsea and Manchester United have also contacted his representative, while Bayern Munich and PSG like him, too.
Vlahovic has scored eight and assisted two goals through his 14 Serie A appearances so far this season. Massimiliano Allegri was also without the 23-year-old from October to January due to a groin injury. Yet Juventus may need to cash in on him without elite UEFA action.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
