Advertisement
Manchester United eye Dusan Vlahovic as possible replacement for Zirkzee
29th July, 2026 03:11 PM
Manchester United are reportedly weighing up a move for Serbian striker Dusan Vlahovic after his departure from Juventus, with the experienced forward now available as a free agent.
The 26-year-old ended his spell in Turin after failing to agree fresh contract terms with the Italian giants. During his time with Juventus, Vlahovic found the net 68 times and contributed 16 assists across 168 appearances.
According to iNews, United have added the Serbian international to their shortlist as they search for additional attacking depth behind new signing Benjamin Sesko ahead of the new campaign.
Joshua Zirkzee has been leading the attack throughout pre-season while Sesko has been unavailable, and the Dutch striker impressed in the recent friendly against Rosenborg by scoring a superb individual goal.
Despite that display, Zirkzee’s future at Old Trafford remains uncertain. Reports suggest that three Serie A clubs, Juventus, Roma and Como, are monitoring his situation and could attempt to sign him before the transfer window closes.
Vlahovic emerges as affordable option
Since arriving at Manchester United, Zirkzee has struggled to consistently deliver, managing just nine goals and four assists in 75 appearances across all competitions.
United have also been linked with Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, although the club may find it difficult to finance a move for the England international while still pursuing reinforcements in other positions.
Michael Carrick is also keen to strengthen his midfield with another signing, while the club hopes to recruit a new left-back and a left-sided attacker. Those plans could depend on possible departures involving Harry Amass and Marcus Rashford.
Villa are believed to value Watkins at no less than £40 million, making Vlahovic an attractive alternative given that he is currently without a club.
Free transfer could prove smart business
Although Vlahovic would likely demand a lucrative salary package and a sizeable signing bonus due to his free-agent status, Manchester United could still secure an experienced striker without paying a transfer fee.
Before joining Juventus, the Serbian enjoyed an impressive spell at Fiorentina, where he registered 49 goals and eight assists in 108 matches.
In his final season with Juventus, Vlahovic scored 10 goals and supplied two assists in 23 appearances. However, injuries limited his involvement for much of the campaign.
