Vlahovic – Kolo Muani, from transfer rumors to Saudi offers

Dusan Vlahovic has now spent his second consecutive Serie A match on the bench for the full 90 minutes. What once would have been a shocking development is now met with indifference.

Just a short while ago, it was hard to imagine Vlahovic being left out of the starting lineup. But now, his complete absence from the matches against Como and Inter has become almost “routine.”

Since Kolo Muani’s arrival, Vlahovic has consistently started from the bench, except in the match against Benfica, when the French forward was unavailable. However, signs had already emerged that the Serbian striker was becoming less central to Thiago Motta’s tactical plans and to Juventus’ long-term vision.

Vlahovic – Kolo Muani: The exhchange proposal?

Juventus FC’s Dusan Vlahovic prepares for the Serie A clash against SSC Napoli at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona in Naples, Italy, on January 25, 2025. (Image credit: Franco Romano/NurPhoto via Getty Images) 📸

Beyond his reduced playing time, Vlahovic’s contractual situation adds another layer of uncertainty. His current deal runs until June 2026, but his salary far exceeds Juventus’ financial constraints in recent years.

The most plausible scenario? A summer departure. This possibility had already been considered in January when the club was open if not actively pushing for his transfer. As journalist Romeo Agresti reported, Vlahovic was at the center of multiple transfer discussions, particularly with Paris Saint Germain and clubs from Saudi Arabia.

Reports from France suggested that Juventus and PSG had explored a potential swap deal involving Kolo Muani and Vlahovic. While the club never officially confirmed such negotiations, it appears that agents and intermediaries proposed the idea to resolve both players’ uncertain situations in a single move.

In the end, Kolo Muani joined Juventus, while Vlahovic remained. The Bianconeri were willing to part ways with their number 9 but were reluctant to do so without securing a suitable replacement in attack.

Al Nassr’s interest: behind the scenes

Dusan Vlahovic shows frustration despite converting a late penalty. (Photo credit: Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images) 📸

Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr was among the clubs eyeing Vlahovic, actively seeking a top-tier striker during the winter transfer window. The Saudi club made inquiries through intermediaries to gauge his availability.

However, Vlahovic showed no interest in the move, as he remains committed to continuing his career in Europe and overcoming recent challenges. Juventus, on the other hand, was open to negotiating with Al-Nassr but would only have accepted a substantial offer.

Vlahovic and Kolo Muani: the summer outlook

Allianz Stadium, Turin, Italy – February 11, 2025: Randal Kolo Muani of Juventus FC observes the action during the first leg of the UEFA Champions League Knockout Play-off against PSV Eindhoven. Juventus FC secures a 2-1 victory. (Photo credit: Marco Canoniero/LightRocket via Getty Images) 📸

Looking ahead, the key question is no longer whether Vlahovic will leave Juventus, but rather how much the club can secure from his departure.

The challenge, however, lies in his declining market value especially if Thiago Motta continues to limit his playing time. Interestingly, the failed winter swap deal between Juventus and PSG might resurface in the summer, when both players’ financial burdens on their respective clubs would be lower.

For now, one thing is certain on the pitch: Kolo Muani has claimed the starting spot, while Vlahovic remains a backup option.