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Dusan Vlahovic’s big-money move from Fiorentina to Juventus was one of the January transfer window’s standout deals. Struggling to get into Serie A’s top four, Juventus knew they had to find a way to replace the goals they lost with Cristiano Ronaldo‘s departure last summer, so they decided to turn to the man who had matched the Portuguese’s record of goals scored in a calendar year in Italy.
Vlahovic has been in fine form in Italy for a couple of seasons now, but his game is perhaps less known outside of the Italian peninsula, so we’ve taken a look at what he’ll bring to Juventus.
Analysis
The Serbian is a modern and traditional striker in one. In ways, he resembles Erling Haaland and Harry Kane in that he is a point of reference in attack, while also boasting the technical skills needed to operate outside of the penalty area.
His speed, strength and size make him a classic No.9 as well – though he’ll wear Cristiano‘s No.7 in Turin – and he doesn’t have any problems going to war with opposing defenders.
His pace allows him to be an option for balls into space, his aerial dominance makes him an ideal target man and his movement buys him extra inches in crowded areas.
As far as his personality is concerned, Vlahovic is a mature leader already, even at 22. He carried Fiorentina through tough times in recent seasons and he is committed to improving every day with the hope of becoming the best No.9 in the world.
The basics
The Serbian’s goalscoring ability is what he most stands out for. His finishing is impressive and he can score every kind of goal from any kind of position.
Once he gets the edge over a defender, opposing goalkeepers know they’re in trouble. He is excellent in finding space for himself and making himself hard for centre-backs to pick up, while also doing well to beat offside traps.
His impact on the team
Still to make his debut with Juventus, Vlahovic is expected to have a big impact on the side from the start. The Serbian will bring a lot to Massimiliano Allegri‘s unit and the Italian’s approach should suit the forward.
Level with Ciro Immobile on 17 Serie A goals this season, nobody has scored more than the ex-Fiorentina man this term. He has as many as 10 more goals than Juventus‘ next-best marksman, Paulo Dybala.
Conclusion
Vlahovic is taking his first step to a top-level club with this move to Juventus and a lot of excitement is surrounding his transfer. A lot of eyes will be on his every step at the Allianz Stadium, but everything suggests that he’s more than ready to deliver what Juventus expect of him.
