Exclusive: What Arsenal sources are saying after claims they have launched bid for Dusan Vlahovic

Today at 04:15 AM

Arsenal are denying claims that they have made a bid for Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, TBR Football can exclusively reveal.

Since losing to Manchester United in the FA Cup, there have been reports that Arsenal have had a bid rejected for Dusan Vlahovic.

However, Gunners insiders are insisting that no such offer was even made to Juventus, even if Arsenal retain interest in Vlahovic.

Arsenal are interested in recruiting a new striker in January, a search that has only been intensified because of Gabriel Jesus' injury.

The Gunners have confirmed Jesus' injury, but they are not putting a time frame on his return, only stating that he will be back this year.

Dusan Vlahovic on five-man Arsenal striker shortlist but no bid made

TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey understands that Arsenal remain interested in five strikers right now, a list that does include Vlahovic, even if an offer hasn't been made thus far.

Along with the Juventus striker, Arsenal like Alexander Isak, Benjamin Sesko, Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres.

READ MORE: When Bukayo Saka is actually expected to return from his hamstring injury at Arsenal

Arsenal sources have confirmed that any business in January would be relatively reactive – the club had a few plans to bring in new players, they know their targets and who they like, but those moves were predominantly planned for the summer.

However, Mikel Arteta's side are now open to a deal this month, ideally a loan move but they do have the money to spend if required.

With Jesus now injured, Kai Havertz is the only recognised striker available to Arteta, even if the likes of Gabriel Martinelli or Leandro Trossard could try their hand centrally.

Juventus still open to Dusan Vlahovic exit

In terms of Vlahovic's availability, were Arsenal to decide to eventually make an offer, Juventus would be open to a deal for the striker this month, even if he has already contributed 12 goals this season.

Vlahovic has thus far refused to sign a new contract with the Italian giants.

Juventus are now also doing their best to finalise a deal for Randal Kolo Muani from Paris Saint-Germain, explaining why Vlahovic would then be able to move on.

Arsenal were offered Kolo Muani themselves earlier this month, but a deal did not progress.

Although, it does remain to be seen whether Arsenal could end up joining that conversation for a France international who could certainly contribute much needed goals at the Emirates.