Manchester United are set to hold talks with Sergej Milinkovic-Savic in the coming weeks, with the Serbian international likely to cost over €70 million.
According to a report from Corriere Dello Sport, as relayed by Sport Witness, Manchester United are in pole position to sign Sergej Milinkovic-Savic. The Lazio midfielder has emerged as the club’s desired replacement for Paul Pogba, whose current contract at Old Trafford expires at the end of the season.
The report suggests Milinkovic-Savic’s agent is set to hold talks with Manchester United in the coming weeks. PSG are involved in the race too, but the Parisian juggernaut are prioritising a move for Pogba, who is available for a free transfer this summer. Milinkovic-Savic, in contrast, could cost over €70 million to sign him from Serie A club Lazio.
Manchester United’s interest in the Serbian international stems from Pogba’s uncertain future at Old Trafford. The club’s hierarchy is keen on bringing in a combative, hard-working midfielder who can impose authority in the middle of the park while offering the experience and leadership to the table.
With almost 300 competitive appearances for Lazio, Milinkovic-Savic has vast experience at the highest level of football. He also fits the bill in terms of aggression and stamina while being a capable leader in midfield. The Serb could, therefore, galvanise Manchester United’s second line of press that has lacked urgency and quality throughout the campaign.
From a tactical perspective, the Lazio midfielder is likely being considered as an upgrade over Fred and Scott McTominay at Manchester United. He is not a traditional holding midfielder, meaning the Red Devils could be forced to target a number six as well, especially after Nemanja Matic announced his desire to leave the club.
For a fee of over €70 million, Milinkovic-Savic will be costing a fortune. But it is an investment worth exploring for a Manchester United side that has lacked the proper quality and individualism in the middle of the park for many years now.
The Serbian international is a quality midfielder, blessed with the technical and tactical astuteness to thrive under Erik ten Hag. The Dutchman is widely expected to become the next head coach for Manchester United this summer, taking over Ralf Rangnick, as the German looks to take up a consultancy role at the club.
The coming few weeks could be crucial for Manchester United, as we may soon Pogba reveal his final decision whereas the club are set to hold talks with Milinkovic-Savic, over his potential move to Old Trafford in the summer.
