The Serbian striker, 24, was a big target for Arsenal back in January 2022 before deciding to join Juve in a big-money transfer. But three years on, his future in Turin is doubt.
Juventus beat a number of English clubs to a loan deal for Muani, who was the subject of interest from Tottenham. And comments made by Juve head coach Thiago Motta indicate that he may now be ahead of Vlahovic in the pecking order.
“Randal is a player we had been looking for, who can give us a lot of movement, not allow the opposition defenders any reference points,” he told DAZN ahead of Saturday evening's trip to Napoli.
“When defending, he has important duties today to ensure Napoli cannot pass the ball around cleanly in areas that can cause us problems.”
When he was questioned on Vlahovic's omission from the starting XI, Motta added: “Vlahovic reacted very well, he is a very positive leader in this squad.
“He is coming back from a small injury, he helped the team a great deal and knows he can be a very important choice off the bench to give us different characteristics in the second half to maintain or even raise the level over the 95 minutes.”
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Muani made an instant impact by scoring on his debut, which could see him retain his starting spot ahead of Vlahovic, who was linked with a move to Arsenal's Premier League rivals, Chelsea, earlier this week.
With Arsenal in need of a striker - and planning to do business this month - it has been speculated that the Gunners could yet rekindle their interest in Vlahovic, who moved for £66million three years ago.
Benjamin Sesko is widely known to be the club's first-choice target when it comes to a new No.9. But the Slovenia international is highly unlikely to be sold by RB Leipzig midway through the season unless Arsenal table a monster bid for the frontman.
Owen Hargreaves, however, suggested Arsenal should consider making a fresh move for Vlahovic in midweek, telling TNT Sports: “Juventus have just signed Muani; you would think maybe Vlahovic could be an option [for Arsenal]. He could be perfect for them, with his profile.”
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