Fiorentina director Joe Barone has demanded Arsenal transfer target Dusan Vlahovic go “public immediately” about his future. The 21-year-old is currently the top goalscorer in Serie A having scored 16 goals in 20 league appearances this season.
He has become one of the hottest prospects in European football, and Mikel Arteta has been jostling his way to the front of the queue for the Serbian hitman.
With his relationship with former club captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang appearing to be beyond repair, a new striker looks to be Arteta’s only transfer demand this January.
Moreover, the North Londoners are also set to lose Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah to free transfers, as the striking duo are approaching the end of their contract.
But amidst the constant speculation connecting Vlahovic with a move elsewhere, Barone angrily demanded the 21-year-old to figure out his situation.
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Vlahovic has entered the final 18 months of his contract, and the Serie A giants are purported to be worried that he could lose significant value when he enters the final year of his deal.
And Barone asked the striker to clarify and make up his mind on his future, so the club can move on for the rest of the season.
“I can only talk about what we discussed. Obviously, when last time Rocco Commisso was here, the figures were almost doubled, we couldn’t talk about it,” Barone added.
“I had a long conversation with Dusan the other day and I told him we need to understand his path. If he wants to stay at Fiorentina, then sign the contract. If he wants to leave, then say so publicly.
“He can’t string an entire club, city and fanbase along waiting for him.
"From what I heard, he is not prepared to speak out, so we have to make our decision within the club.”
With the conversation still firmly entrenched in Vlahovic’s future, Barone also sent a message to the likes of Arsenal and Tottenham, who have been the main clubs to express an interest in his services.
“We need to talk about the game and not just Vlahovic, as that is disrespectful to the rest of the squad and the club.
“Of course, we are ready to evaluate anything that arrives. So far, no offers have arrived.”