Why Dusan Vlahovic is a smarter choice than Robert Lewandowski for Man Utd
Instead of taking a risk with veterans like Lewandowski, Man Utd have the opportunity to sign Dusan Vlahovic on a free transfer to build a sustainable attacking line.
Manchester United are actively working in the transfer market to find a top-class striker to share the goal-scoring burden. With the team needing a long-term solution, Dusan Vlahovic is emerging as a far more logical option than experienced but aging players like Robert Lewandowski.
The need for a top-class center forward.
Last season, Manchester United's attack performed relatively well thanks to the rotation between Benjamin Sesko and the support of Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Joshua Zirkzee. However, to compete in all four major competitions next season, the Red Devils' management understands that they cannot continue to rely on this temporary solution.
Initial discussions at Old Trafford revolved primarily around Robert Lewandowski and Danny Welbeck. While Lewandowski possessed the qualities of a champion and Welbeck had a deep understanding of his former club, both were over 35 years old. This was a short-term, reactive transfer—a familiar approach under previous owners that INEOS was seeking to change.
Dusan Vlahovic: A youthful and free solution
Instead of taking risks with veteran players, Man Utd should turn their attention to Dusan Vlahovic. The 26-year-old Serbian striker's contract with Juventus expires on July 1st, making him a free agent. This is seen as a golden opportunity in the transfer market that the Manchester club should not miss.
Despite Juventus' recent lackluster performance, Vlahovic has maintained an impressive goal-scoring record. Last season, he scored or assisted an average of every 117 minutes of play. This is an extremely impressive statistic for a striker playing in a team that struggles with creativity.
A perfect tactical complement.
At 26 years old, the Serbian striker is entering the prime of his career. His physical advantage is expected to help him adapt well to the physically demanding environment of the Premier League. In particular, Vlahovic's left-footedness will provide more diverse attacking options when combined with Benjamin Sesko, who is right-footed.
Salary barriers and career orientation at INEOS
The biggest obstacle to this deal is the salary. At Juventus, the Serbian international is the highest-paid player in Serie A, earning nearly £375,000 per week. This figure doesn't fit with Manchester United's current wage reduction policy following Casemiro's departure.
However, the solution might lie in a shrewd deal. Man Utd could use the savings from the transfer fee to pay a substantial signing bonus, thereby persuading Vlahovic to reduce his weekly salary to around £200,000. If this issue is resolved, Vlahovic would be the perfect piece to take the Red Devils' attack to a new level.
