They made a choice between him and Krasic.
More so it was the FIGC and Wolfsburg, to a lesser degree, that made the decision for us. The latter were trying to extort everyone who came in for him and the former, well, they're idiots who think this band-aid solution will solve anything for the Italian NT.
They chose Krasic who cost considerably less than what Dzeko would have and they made other signings. So what they were reportedly prepared to spend on Dzeko went elsewhere.
Actually, by all accounts, if it weren't for said EU rule change we would have gone after both (regardless of Wolfsburg's valuation). That's from an interview with Marotta or some other director I can't be bothered to look up. I think our financial situation isn't as dire as some would lead us to believe and would have allowed for a one-off splurge like Dzeko last summer.
We are nowhere near safe in terms of CL qualification. And it will take a while before the stadium becomes a substantial source of income.
We're a good bet for the CL, I'd say.
With the pre-sold corporate boxes and VIP seats (as well as predicted commercial space profits) we'll be making money from the get go.