Juventus Star Dusan Vlahović Snubs New Contract in Favour of Newcastle United Deal
In a dramatic twist that has sent shockwaves through European football, Serbian striker Dušan Vlahović has reportedly rejected a lucrative new contract extension with Juventus in favour of a blockbuster move to Newcastle United. The 24-year-old forward, long considered one of the most lethal young strikers in the game, is set to become the marquee signing in what promises to be a transformative summer for the Magpies.
A Bold Move by Vlahović
Vlahović, who joined Juventus from Fiorentina in January 2022 for a fee in excess of €70 million, has been at the centre of the Bianconeri’s attacking strategy over the past two seasons. Despite an inconsistent spell for the club as a whole, the Serbian striker has maintained an impressive scoring record, netting 18 goals in all competitions during the 2024–25 campaign.
Juventus had hoped to secure Vlahović’s long-term future by offering an improved contract extension, reportedly including a significant wage increase and performance bonuses. However, sources close to the player have confirmed that he has turned down the offer in pursuit of a fresh challenge in the Premier League—specifically, with Newcastle United.
Newcastle’s Ambition on Full Display
The move is being viewed as a statement of intent from Newcastle, who continue to build on their ambitious project under the ownership of the Saudi-backed Public Investment Fund. After qualifying for European competition again, the Magpies are looking to bolster their squad with elite talent to mount a serious challenge both domestically and on the continental stage.
Vlahović is expected to sign a five-year deal worth in the region of £200,000 per week, making him one of the club’s highest-paid players. The transfer fee is reported to be around £65 million, with personal terms already agreed. The move is pending a medical, expected to be completed in the coming days.
Speaking off the record, a source close to the negotiations said: “Dušan was impressed by the vision laid out by Eddie Howe and the board. He wants to play in a high-intensity league and be part of something special. Newcastle ticked every box for him—competitive ambition, a passionate fanbase, and a project tailored for growth.”
Juventus Left to Regroup
Juventus, who recently secured a top-four finish in Serie A and qualified for the UEFA Champions League, now face a summer of upheaval in their attacking department. Vlahović’s departure leaves a significant void in Massimiliano Allegri’s squad, with few internal options able to replicate the Serbian’s physical presence, technical ability, and goal-scoring instincts.
The club is now expected to pivot quickly to identify replacements. Potential targets include Atalanta’s Rasmus Højlund, Bologna’s Joshua Zirkzee, and even a return bid for Álvaro Morata, who remains a favourite among sections of the Juventus hierarchy. There is also speculation that Juve may reinvest part of the fee in strengthening their midfield and defensive lines to balance the squad more holistically.
A Natural Fit for the Premier League?
Vlahović has long been linked with a move to England, with clubs like Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United previously showing interest. However, Newcastle’s emergence as a serious footballing force—and their ability to offer guaranteed game time and a central role in attack—proved decisive.
Standing at 6’3” and boasting a powerful left foot, Vlahović is well suited to the physical demands of the Premier League. His ability to hold up play, dominate aerially, and finish clinically makes him an ideal focal point for Newcastle’s evolving attack.
With Alexander Isak often deployed in wide or secondary roles, Vlahović’s arrival is not expected to force the Swede out, but rather complement him in a new-look forward line. The two could form one of the most formidable strike partnerships in England, supported by creative talents like Bruno Guimarães, Anthony Gordon, and Harvey Barnes.
Fans React With Excitement
The news of Vlahović’s impending arrival has been met with overwhelming excitement by Newcastle supporters. Social media was abuzz with reactions, many praising the ambition shown by the club and welcoming the arrival of a proven international striker with room to grow.
“This is exactly the kind of signing we’ve been dreaming about,” said one fan on X (formerly Twitter). “Vlahović is a game-changer. Champions League football isn’t just a dream anymore—it’s a goal.”
Former Newcastle striker Alan Shearer also weighed in, calling the move “a signal that Newcastle aren’t just here to compete—they’re here to win.”
What’s Next?
The transfer is expected to be officially confirmed within the next week, pending final medical checks and visa paperwork. Vlahović is anticipated to join the club’s pre-season tour in the United States and will be unveiled alongside other summer acquisitions as Newcastle prepares for one of the most important seasons in its modern history.
If all goes according to plan, Dušan Vlahović will be wearing black and white stripes at St. James’ Park this August—not in Turin, but in Tyneside. And with that, Newcastle United may have just taken another major step toward establishing themselves as a true powerhouse of European football.