Free-agent Vlahovic emerges as Xabi Alonso's striker priority at Chelsea this summer

Chelsea are weighing a move for Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, who is expected to leave Turin as a free agent this summer after contract negotiations broke down, with incoming manager Xabi Alonso understood to have made the 26-year-old a priority target.

Vlahovic’s availability on a free transfer is a significant draw for Chelsea, who finished a disappointing tenth in the Premier League this season. Their attacking output was a central problem: while Joao Pedro contributed 20 goals across all competitions in his debut campaign, Liam Delap and Marc Guiu managed just four goals between them in 54 appearances.

Italian media reports suggest Alonso, preparing for his first season at Stamford Bridge, has flagged the striking position as an urgent area of improvement. The Spaniard is also set to welcome Emmanuel Emegha from Strasbourg this summer, but a more established presence up front appears high on the agenda.

Vlahovic cost Juventus £66 million when he joined from Fiorentina in January 2022, making his potential departure on a free a costly outcome for the Serie A club. For Chelsea, however, the absence of a transfer fee would free up funds to address other areas of the squad. The Serbian has scored 68 goals in 168 appearances for Juventus and has accumulated 136 goals across club and country throughout his career.

At 6‘3”, Vlahovic offers a physical presence that suits the set-piece-heavy style that became increasingly prominent in the Premier League this season. His ability to hold up play, spin defenders, and finish clinically makes him a credible fit for the profile of striker Alonso is believed to want.

Chelsea appear to already be moving in the transfer market under their new head coach. According to The Athletic, Atalanta wing-back Marco Palestra is close to completing a move to Stamford Bridge as Alonso’s first signing. Vlahovic, if a deal materialises, would represent a significant second addition.