Arsenal ‘push ahead with £60m Dusan Vlahovic transfer but could lose out to Tottenham thanks to Paratici connections’

ARSENAL are reportedly set to push ahead with a £60million bid for Fiorentina’s Dusan Vlahovic.

But claims Tottenham could end up hijacking the deal thanks to close links between sporting director Fabio Paratici and Vlahovic’s highly-influential agent Davide Torchia.

Arsenal are desperate to sign a new striker this month, with the futures of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah all doubtful.

Vlahovic, 21, has emerged as one of Europe’s top forwards with 18 goals in just 20 games this term.

And Arsenal are willing to meet Fiorentina’s £60m price tag, as well as Vlahovic’s stunning £300,000-a-week wage demands.

However, there could yet be a sting in the tail for Mikel Arteta.

Firstly, Vlahovic is said to prefer remaining in Serie A if possible, although it is unlikely any of the top Italian sides could afford his transfer fee and wages.

Secondly, Arsenal’s fiercest rivals Spurs are considering joining the fight.

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And transfer guru Paratici could use his close relationship with Vlahovic’s agent to line up a North London switch this summer.

Should Arsenal miss out on Vlahovic, with Manchester City also linked, Arteta does have other targets lined up.

Real Sociedad’s Alexander Isak is thought to be the next in line, while Lille’s Jonathan David and Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin are also of interest.

Reflecting on potential signings this month, Arteta said last week: “I think with the amount of things and the way that we want to evolve the squad, we have to maximise every window in many different ways and we are alert.

“[Technical director] Edu and his team are working very hard because we know exactly what we need to do, and whether we can accomplish that in January or in the summer, is a different question as it is related to other stuff.

“Again, if it is the right player and we can afford it and we can do what we want to do, we will discuss it and make the best possible decision. We are open.”

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