Dusan Vlahovic demands Lautaro Martinez-level salary at Juventus

Juventus' hopes of locking down their goal-scoring machine, Dusan Vlahovic, are hitting a major roadblock. Vlahovic's agent, Darko Ristic, has his sights set high, demanding a salary package that rivals what Inter Milan is reportedly offering Lautaro Martinez – a hefty €10 million per season until 2028.

Vlahovic, a Serbian powerhouse who joined Juventus in January 2022, is a critical piece of the Bianconeri's attacking strategy. His existing contract, which runs until 2026, includes a significant salary bump to €12 million for the 2025/26 season.

Juventus wants to keep their star in Turin even longer, aiming to extend his deal until 2028 or 2029. This would help balance out those rising salary costs. However, their initial four-year offer of €8 million annually hasn't impressed Vlahovic's camp according to Il Corriere dello Sport.

Ristic, a frequent presence in Turin lately, is playing hardball. If Juventus won't match Martinez's level of pay, the implication is clear: Vlahovic could be on his way out. This scenario throws a wrench into Juventus' plans.

They would reluctantly have to sell the striker this summer, likely demanding at least €50 million to recoup their investment. Bologna's Joshua Zirkzee is seen as a potential target to fill the void left by Vlahovic.

Despite the tension, Vlahovic himself seems invested in finding a solution that keeps him in the iconic black and white stripes. His scoring form since the start of the year has been nothing short of electric.

Still, sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli is wisely keeping options open – contract talks are delayed until late spring, but communication with Vlahovic's agent remains constant.

Juventus isn't just dealing with Vlahovic's contract drama. Federico Chiesa, another vital star, could walk away on a free transfer when his contract ends in 2025. The club might opt for a short-term extension to avoid the nightmare of losing him for nothing.

The stakes are high for Juventus. Vlahovic's potential departure would be a massive blow to their hopes of reclaiming dominance in Serie A and making a splash in the Champions League. Fans are holding their breath, desperately hoping the club can find a way to satisfy their star striker and secure his future in Turin.