It appears as though the Dusan Vlahovic transfer saga is nearing its end.
Juventus have agreed on a deal with Fiorentina for the highly-rated striker. They will pay a fee of over £60 million for Serie A’s top scorer this season, in a move that will infuriate Viola fans.
The transfer has angered one high-profile fan, former Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi.
‘A day of mourning’
When speaking on Vlahovic’s move, Renzi didn’t mince his words: “It’s like a day of mourning in Florence… I’m furious.”
Matteo Renzi is one of the most prominent figures in Italian politics. A member of the Italia Viva party, he was Italy’s Prime Minister from 2014 to 2016. Renzio resigned from the position following defeat in a critical referendum.
It seems that he is fed up with his football team losing out too. Renzi compared Vlahovic leaving to another transfer in the 1990s.
“I was 15 when Baggio was sold to Juve,” he said. “Why do Fiorentina have to sell everyone to Juventus? At least send some to different clubs.”
History repeats itself
Unfortunately for Fiorentina fans, their club has sold their star player to the Old Lady before.
In 1990, Juve broke the transfer world record to land Roberto Baggio. At the time, Baggio was one of the brightest stars of Serie A. The Italian league dominated the 90s, with many iconic players playing in Italy.
Baggio was one of those icons. At just 23 years old, he scored 17 league goals for the Florence side in 1989-90.
He was a hero for Fiorentina and made 136 appearances for the club. His move to Juve caused protests in Florence, as they hated losing their talisman to their rivals. Now, Fiorentina fans may have to watch it happen again.
Why Vlahovic transfer has to happen
Unfortunately, Vlahovic looks like he must leave. The Serbian forward’s contract expires in 2023. Therefore, Fiorentina needs to sell sooner rather than later. That way, they can maximize the profit on their most significant asset.
The expiring contract is fundamental, as Vlahovic rejected a renewal from the Italian side. They would have made him their biggest earner by a distance.
Furthermore, Juventus is where he wants to go. Rumours have circulated of a move to the Premier League, but Vlahovic would prefer to stay in Italy.
The news will disappoint Arsenal fans. The Gunners were heavily linked with the Serbian. However, he has chosen Juve instead.
Although the deal is not finalised, Fiorentina faithful will have to prepare themselves for a painful goodbye to yet another top talent.
