Sergej Milinkovic-Savic has declared that he will decide on his future after the World Cup amid speculation linking him with Manchester United
As reported by Daily Mail, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic has iterated that his sole focus is on representing Serbia at the FIFA World Cup in Russia and that he’ll take a call on his future after the tournament ends. The Lazio midfielder has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United in the summer transfer window.
Milinkovic-Savic has become a household name in Europe over the last three years, having been a pivotal figure for Lazio, who have been on the ascendancy in Serie A during this period. The player was especially in his elements this past season, playing a major role as Lazio nearly qualified for the UEFA Champions League.
In 48 appearances across all competitions, Milinkovic-Savic amassed 14 goals and 9 assists, while also impressing with his ability to contribute defensively. Unsurprisingly, the Serb has piqued the interest of several top clubs across Europe, none more so than Manchester United, who have been in his pursuit for a long time now.
The Red Devils have been forced into the transfer market for a couple of midfielders, with Marouane Fellaini set to leave on a free transfer and Michael Carrick hanging up his boots to join Jose Mourinho’s backroom staff.
The Manchester United boss has already bolstered his midfield by signing Fred, but Fellaini’s departure will bring about the need to add one more midfielder. Milinkovic-Savic will not just be a straight up replacement for the Belgian, but will also be an upgrade on him with his abilities.
Manchester United aren’t just the only club in his pursuit, with the likes of Arsenal, Real Madrid, PSG and others reportedly also part of an ever-growing list of suitors. But, the Red Devils are the only side that has shown some concrete interest thus far.
But, Manchester United will have to wait till the end of Serbia’s World Cup campaign, with Milinkovic-Savic insisting that he is only concentrating on this summer’s tournament in Russia, and will only decide his future next month.
“I am trying to remain concentrated, even though every day I read something new about me. Obviously, I feel pressure on me and know that I’ll have to live with this situation throughout the World Cup. It’s the same pressure as when I play for Lazio, so I am accustomed to it. I will decide where to continue my career after the World Cup.”
That’s not the only issue for Manchester United, who are also trying to lower Lazio’s asking price of £87.5 million. It now remains to be seen if the Premier League heavyweights can succeed in their pursuit of Milinkovic-Savic, who will now be looking to enjoy a success World Cup campaign with Serbia.