Dusan Vlahovic is keen to extend with Juventus, but negotiations are stalled over agent Darko Ristic's commission demands despite a proposed salary cut to €6-7m.
Dusan Vlahovic is set to become a free agent on 1 July 2026 unless he agrees to a new contract with Juventus, and while the striker has made it clear he wants to remain in Turin, significant obstacles remain. After returning from a lengthy injury lay-off, Vlahovic remains a key figure for Massimiliano Allegri’s side, and despite interest from top clubs like AC Milan, Arsenal, and several Spanish teams, he is reportedly eager to extend his stay. Initial talks have been described as positive by La Gazzetta dello Sport, but progress has stalled over a critical issue: the role and remuneration of his agent.
The main roadblock is not the player’s salary demands, which Juventus hopes to reduce from the current €12 million (including bonuses) to €6–7 million per season. Instead, the sticking point is agent Darko Ristic, who stands to earn a far larger commission by brokering a transfer to another club. As a result, Ristic is reportedly reluctant to facilitate a contract extension, even if it aligns with Vlahovic’s personal wishes. Juventus are now attempting to bypass this impasse by involving the player’s father, Milos Vlahovic, in the negotiations, hoping family influence can help reach a compromise.
"The player wants to stay, but the agent plays a two-level game" — Football Italia
In today’s football landscape, agents wield enormous influence, often shaping the trajectory of high-profile deals. In Vlahovic’s case, the conflict of interest is stark: while the player appears committed to Juventus, his representative has a financial incentive to push for a move. This dynamic is not uncommon, but it places clubs in a difficult position—especially when dealing with players entering the final months of their contracts. Juventus, already managing financial constraints under Serie A’s salary regulations, cannot afford to overpay, yet risk losing a proven goalscorer on a free transfer.
The club’s strategy of bringing in Milos Vlahovic reflects a growing trend of clubs appealing directly to players’ families to circumvent agent-dominated negotiations. If successful, this could accelerate talks ahead of the next scheduled meeting next week. However, if Ristic continues to resist, Juventus may need to prepare for life without their star striker. AC Milan, where Max Allegri could reunite with the forward, remains a likely destination, while Premier League and La Liga clubs are also monitoring the situation closely.
Vlahovic has been a pivotal figure in Juventus’ attack since his arrival, contributing crucial goals in tight Serie A fixtures and European campaigns. Losing him on a free transfer would represent both a sporting and financial loss. The proposed €6–7 million annual package reflects a balanced compromise—rewarding loyalty while maintaining fiscal responsibility. However, time is running out. With less than three months until his contract expires, the window for resolution is narrow. The outcome will not only shape Juventus’ immediate future but also send a message about their ability to retain top talent in an increasingly volatile transfer market.
