Atlético de Madrid have been very active in the transfer market this summer, but one of the moves that did not end up materializing was that of Dusan Vlahovic . According to sources in Spain, the Serbian striker was an option that the rojiblanco club seriously considered before betting on Alexander Sorloth . However, and just like in 2022, Atlético were left without the signing of Vlahovic.
Vlahovic, the 'crack' who got away... again to Gil Marín
Dusan Vlahovic , Juventus striker, is one of the names that has been heard most in the offices of Atlético de Madrid in recent years. In the summer of 2022, when he was still playing for Fiorentina , the Serbian was in the orbit of the colchonero club. However, the high price that the Italian club was asking, close to 84 million euros, made it impossible for the operation to be completed.
This summer, with Juventus in a difficult financial situation, Vlahovic was back on the market. Atlético de Madrid did not want to miss the opportunity and, according to sources, the sporting management put Vlahovic's name back on the table. The club needed to strengthen its attack after the departure of key players, and the Serbian fit perfectly into Simeone's scheme.
Contacts, but no agreement
At the beginning of July, talks were held between Atlético de Madrid and Vlahovic's entourage. The red-and-white club were looking to close the signing of at least two forwards and the Serbian stood out as one of the most attractive options. However, the operation did not advance. As in 2022, the financial conditions of the transfer were once again an obstacle for the colchoneros.
Juventus, despite their financial situation, were not willing to let Vlahovic go at any price. Atlético, for their part, could not afford such a large-scale operation without putting their financial stability at risk. This led to the Serbian being ruled out in the end.
Sorloth, the beneficiary
The decision not to sign Vlahovic left room for Alexander Sorloth to establish himself as Atlético Madrid's new attacking option. The Norwegian striker arrived as a more affordable alternative and with the profile of a striker that Simeone likes so much.
Sorloth is a powerful player, with the ability to work hard and good aerial play, something that makes him fit well into "Cholo's" system. In addition, his arrival means less financial pressure for the club compared to what the signing of Vlahovic would have meant. Now, with the departure of several forwards and the non-signing of the Serbian, Sorloth has the opportunity to consolidate himself as the team's offensive reference.