Man City lead race for Dušan Vlahović; Pep Guardiola ‘in love’ with him

Manchester City are reportedly leading the race to sign in-demand Fiorentina striker Dušan Vlahović, according to reports by La Repubblica.

The 21-year-old striker has been linked with a move to the Etihad as City were in the market for a prolific striker across the course of the summer transfer window.

Having failed to sign Harry Kane from Tottenham Hotspur during the summer, Vlahovic has been regarded as a realistic alternative ahead of 2022.

The Serbian forward, who is attracting interest from nearly every top side on the planet, scored 21 goals last season, and has 18 goals and 3 assists already this term, further adding to his growing reputation across the continent.

According to reports by La Repubblica (as shared by TuttoJuve), it has been suggested that City have the best chance of anyone of signing Vlahović, with Juventus not at the forefront of the transfer race.

Reports have suggested that the 21-year-old’s preference is to remain in Italy until the end of the season before making his move in the summer, and it appears that City are the front-runners in securing the player’s signature.

Pep Guardiola is said to be ‘in love’ with the Serbian’s goal-scoring ability, and consider him the ‘perfect striker’ for the Manchester City squad.

Man City are without a natural striker in the squad after the club failed to sign Harry Kane in the summer following the departure of Sergio Aguero.

However, goals have hardly been an issue for Pep Guardiola’s side in both the Premier League and in Europe.

Whilst Vlahović is an extraordinary talent, City have been one of the most prolific sides in the Premier League, with only Liverpool scoring more goals in the top-flight this season than the reigning English champions.

Indeed, a lack of goals is hardly an issue for City. But Vlahović could be the missing factor for Guardiola’s side to dominate Europe for many years to come if they beat Juventus and other European giants to his signature.