Arsenal's search for attacking reinforcements could end with them acquiring highly coveted Fiorentina forward Dusan Vlahovic.
The Gunners are understood to be in a strong position to sign the 21-year-old should he leave Fiorentina during the current transfer window, according to David Ornstein of The Athletic.
Arsenal is thought to be "best placed" to win the race for his signature based on their ability to both meet Fiorentina's valuation and satisfy the Serbian international's wage demands. However, Vlahovic is keen on joining Juventus over the Gunners and other suitors, such as Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United, Ornstein notes.
Fiorentina may be forced to sell Vlahovic either this month or after the season since he reportedly isn't willing to sign a new contract. His current deal expires in June 2023.
Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport reported last October that Fiorentina's asking price could be as high as €90.5 million (£77 million).
With Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Alexandre Lacazette, and Eddie Nketiah potentially nearing the end of their careers in north London, adding a forward is expected to be a top priority for Arsenal this month.
Aubameyang's future with the Gunners appears to be over. Manager Mikel Arteta stripped him of the captaincy and subsequently benched him after a disciplinary breach late last year. Meanwhile, both Lacazette and Nketiah could leave as free agents in the summer.
Everton forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Alexander Isak of Real Sociedad are considered Arsenal's alternatives in lieu of a deal for Vlahovic.
Vlahovic has 18 goals in 21 appearances in all competitions this season.
