Fiorentina chief deals huge blow to Arsenal’s hopes of signing Dusan Vlahovic

Fiorentina chief Joe Barone has dealt a massive blow to Arsenal’s hopes of signing Dusan Vlahovic by claiming the striker is refusing to entertain a transfer this month.

The Gunners have made signing a new frontman their top priority in the January window and have been targeting Serie A’s top scorer, offering a package worth £50million plus Lucas Torreira in part exchange.

Fiorentina are believed to be keen to accept the offer and cash in on a player who only has 18 months left on his current contract, but Vlahovic is more reluctant.

The Serbia international wants to see out the rest of the season in Florence while he would rather stay in Italy and prefers a move to either Juventus or Inter, with the Old Lady now launching their own bid to sign the 21-year-old marksman.

Vlahovic’s agent is also reported to be demanding a massive signing-on fee, while the player and his entourage are conscious that he could have his pick of clubs in the summer – when he will only have a year left on his deal – with the likes of Manchester City and Barcelona potentially joining the race.

Now Barone, Fiorentina’s general manager, has shed some light on the situation, suggesting the Italian side are happy to sell Vlahovic this month but he does not want to go, with lines of communication between the player’s representatives and the club practically non-existent.

Dusan Vlahovic considering Arsenal U-turn after huge contract offer

Liverpool beat Arsenal to reach Carabao Cup final vs Chelsea

Emmanuel Petit tells two 'unhappy' players to leave Manchester United

Speaking to La Nazione newspaper, Barone explained: ‘Some English clubs have made contact, but there is no agreement yet. We are open [to selling] but there can’t be a deal unless someone