Former Arsenal defender Mikael Silvestre has urged the Gunners to reignite their interest in Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, despite being snubbed by him in 2022.

The north London outfit's quest for a forward who can spearhead their Premier League title charge and challenge a formidable Manchester City could come to fruition this summer.

While big names such as Newcastle's Alexander Isak and Napoli's Victor Osimhen have been mooted, the ex-Gunner believes Serbian international Vlahovic is the perfect addition, despite his previous decision to snub a move.

Vlahovic caught the eye with Fiorentina in Serie A, attracting significant attention before ultimately opting for Juventus over a move to the Emirates - a decision that former Real Madrid and AC Milan star Antonio Cassano was particularly critical of.

Arsenal's initial approach for Vlahovic made waves in January 2022 when a $64m (PS50m/EUR60m) plus Lucas Torreira offer was turned down in favour of Juventus' bid. The deal saw Vlahovic become one of the Turin club's record signings, behind only Cristiano Ronaldo, Gonzalo Higuain and current Manchester United target Matthijs de Ligt.

Vlahovic's switch from La Viola came after a season where he netted 17 times, marking him out as one of Serie A's standout performers. However, former Italy international Cassano questioned the striker's choice of club.

Antonio Cassano didn't mince his words on Christian Vieri's Twitch channel last year, saying: "In my opinion, [Vlahovic's decision] is sensationally wrong. For the type of player I think he is, he needed to make an intermediate step to a team like Arsenal. For me, you know, he has always been a second-tier player."

Juventus' valuation of Vlahovic sits at a hefty $110m (PS85m/EUR100m), mirroring the market rate for top-notch strikers these days. Victor Gyokeres is also on Arsenal's radar, interestingly with a release clause matching Vlahovic's price tag. Meanwhile, the likes of Isak and Osimhen could command fees north of $128m (PS100m/EUR120m)

With the endorsement from their ex-defender, Arsenal might just reignite their interest in the striker who previously snubbed them, as they continue their hunt for a forward this summer.