Mauricio Pochettino is interested in signing Dusan Vlahovic from Juventus this summer, but there is an issue for Chelsea.
That is according to the Daily Mail.
So, what is the situation involving Chelsea and Dusan Vlahovic? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well – according to Rudy Galetti – Pochettino loves the Serbia international, and believes he is the ideal striker for Chelsea.
However – as detailed by the Daily Mail – Chelsea feel Vlahovic’s salary is a problem, as those at Stamford Bridge attempt to restructure the club’s wage tiers.
It is not specified how much the Juventus No.9 earns, although Salary Sport believe he makes £215,000-a-week at the Allianz Stadium.
That would immediately make Vlahovic one of the highest earns at Stamford Bridge, behind Romelu Lukaku, Raheem Sterling, Enzo Fernandez and Reece James, who all earn £250,000-a-week or more.
The Serbian striker scored 14 goals in 42 appearances last season as Juventus finished seventh in Serie A.
Chelsea right to be wary of Vlahovic deal
In our view, it is pleasing to see Chelsea hesitate over a deal to sign Vlahovic.
Bringing the 23-year-old in on his current salary would potentially alienate most of the squad, as many will presumably ask why a new arrival is earning more than them.
This potentially sour atmosphere would only grow even more toxic if Vlahovic struggles.
Chelsea have been careless with their salary offerings for too long now – even the likes of Malang Sarr, Carney Chukwuemeka, Marc Cucurella and Kepa Arrizabalaga earn £100,000-a-week or more.
Therefore, it is good to see some consideration given to stopping this unsustainable approach, even if Pochettino does view Vlahovic as the perfect striker for his plans.
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation despite Chelsea’s current stance – Alfredo Pedulla believes Vlahovic is unhappy in Turin, so it is possible that he could even take a pay cut to force through the move.
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