Manchester United might reportedly have to cough up at least €60 million to sign Lazio midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.
A recent report from Alfredo Pedulla has offered an update on the future of Sergej Milinkovic-Savic. It appears the Lazio midfielder is open to exploring his options in the summer, prompting the Serie A outfit to forecast a potential exit, especially amid interest from Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain.
The report suggests Lazio could demand around €70 million for the services of Milinkovic-Savic, although they could consider lowering their demands by up to €10 million.
Pedulla appears to refute claims from Il Messaggero earlier this week, which suggested a figure of around €80 million. It seems Lazio are aware of the poor financial conditions of most clubs across Europe and are wary of losing the midfielder for a lower fee next summer.
It has prompted the Serie A outfit to lower their demands for Milinkovic-Savic, even though the Serbian international has over two years remaining on his current contract.
Manchester United’s interest in the Serbian international stems from the club’s apparent need for new midfielders this summer. The Red Devils are expected to lose Paul Pogba, whose contract expires at the end of the season. The Frenchman is yet to decide his future, but he is likely to join a top club in Europe on a free transfer after leaving Manchester United.
Pogba’s potential exit could leave a massive void in the Manchester United midfield next season. And in an attempt to fill the void, the club’s hierarchy is ready to sign a player of Milinkovic-Savic’s calibre – a hard-working talent with loads of experience at the highest level of football.
Indeed, the former Vojvodina starlet is a seasoned veteran with almost 300 competitive appearances for Lazio. A central midfielder by trade, the Serbian international has built a strong reputation in Serie A for his aggression, work ethic and leadership in the middle of the park, making him an appealing target for Manchester United.
The Red Devils, though, are set to face stiff competition from other European giants such as Real Madrid and PSG in the race to sign Sergej Milinkovic-Savic. Manchester United should have little difficulty in convincing the player, who may be keen on taking the next step in his career. But it remains to be seen if any of the three clubs in question plan to meet Lazio’s demands in the summer.