Arsenal are reportedly turning their attention to Real Madrid's Gonzalo Higuain, after their top striker target Stevan Jovetic was handed a £30m price tag by Fiorentina.

Jovetic has been heavily linked with a summer move to the Gunners, especially after the Montenegrin admitted he has an affinity towards the north London outfit. Recent reports suggested the three parties have entered negotiations and a £24.5m deal was nearing completion.

Stevan Jovetic
Reuters

However, according to the Daily Mirror, the Viola are now holding out for a figure around £30m for the 23-year-old. The Evening Standard claims the Gunners are unwilling to meet that amount and are now considering slightly cheaper alternatives, with Madrid's out-of-favour star Higuain emerging a top contender.

It is understood that the Argentine, who has 14 goals and five assists to his name from 26 La Liga appearances this season, is keen on a move away from the Bernabeu for more first team action and would be available for £19m.

Arsene Wenger had earmarked Jovetic as his top transfer target this summer and was keen on landing the forward. However, Fiorentina are determined to get the most out of the deal, with Serie A champions Juventus also interested in the player.

Gonzalo Higuain
Reuters

Jovetic made 31 Serie A appearances this season, notching 13 goals and five assists. Fiorentina president Andrea Della Valle had recently admitted it is highly unlikely that the striker would stay at the club for another season, especially after the Viola missed out on Champions League qualification yet again.

"It is very unlikely he will stay. Stevan has to figure out what he wants for the future. If he is to choose something else, then it's important we are compensated," Della Valle pointed out.

However, it is understood that Wenger would not pay over the odds for the youngster and would give Arsenal the greenlight to push ahead with a move for Higuain, if a deal for Jovetic cannot be agreed soon.

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