Arsenal may be used as 'smokescreen' as Gunners 'serious' over former target

could be used as a smokescreen in their pursuit of Dusan Vlahovic after reportedly reprising their interest in the Juventus star. The Gunners were strongly linked with the Serbian striker in January 2022 and could reignite a deal in the future.

Vlahovic was on Mikel Arteta's shortlist as the Spaniard searched for the centre-forward able to take Arsenal into the Premier League's top four. Nearly three years on, the north Londoners are now title contenders and need a prolific No. 9.

Having made his name at Fiorentina, Vlahovic opted for a move to Juventus over heading to Arsenal in 2022. After a slow start in Turin, the 24-year-old has finally hit some good form and has suitors from around Europe.

According to , Arsenal are 'serious' about signing Vlahovic and are waiting to see how his negotiations with Juventus pan out over the next few months. However, there could be a concern that the Gunners are being used as a smokescreen in those discussions.

The player is set to enter the final 18 months of his contract with the Serie A side. By using Arsenal's name in contract talks, Vlahovic's camp may be attempting to leverage a better deal.

Vlahovic struck 18 goals across all competitions last season and has already scored seven in 10 appearances this term. Arsenal are in desperate need of an elite striker to help them topple Manchester City at the top of the Premier League.

Mikel Arteta has entrusted Kai Havertz as the focal point of Arsenal's attack this season. While the German has played well and scored six goals, the Gunners at times miss his creativity in an attacking midfield position - particularly with Martin Odegaard out injured.

Arsenal were toothless during Saturday's 2-0 defeat against Bournemouth, even before they went down to 10 men following William Saliba's red card after 27 minutes. An uncharacteristically flat performance will be a concern to their boss, particularly with City beating Wolves 24 hours later.

Liverpool also beat Chelsea 2-1 on Sunday to remain top of the Premier League and potentially presenting another title challenger to Arsenal.

Arteta and sporting director Edu could therefore be tempted to enter the January transfer market for a new forward. It is reported that Juventus are seeking £66million for Vlahovic, a potentially large deal for the north Londoners to complete midway through the campaign.