Manchester United are reportedly turning their attention back to Arsenal target Sergej Milinkovic-Savic amid their stalling Frenkie de Jong discussions.
United are still trying to bolster their engine room after several weeks of chasing Barcelona midfielder De Jong. The Dutchman has insisted that he does not want to move to Old Trafford, but there is an agenda in place above him.
Barca have spent heavily this summer and are aware that De Jong is their most saleable asset. But the fact that Barca owe De Jong millions in deferred wages is complicating the situation further.
Having already added free agent Christian Eriksen, Man Utd are therefore considering other transfer targets.
Lazio’s Serbia international Milinkovic-Savic is a long-term target and Calciomercato reports that United are now switching their focus back onto him.
The 27-year-old has been with his Serie A employers since 2015 following his transfer from Genk.
In that time, he has racked up 231 Serie A outings and 34 Serbia caps to become one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe.
And with two years left on Milinkovic-Savic’s current contract, there is a major decision brewing over his future.
Arsenal also want another midfield signing after bringing in Fabio Vieira from Porto, with the Lazio star on their radar.
Lazio will not stand in Milinkovic-Savic’s way if he does want to leave. And they know this summer is their final chance to get maximum profit for him, demanding at least €70million (£59.5million).
As well as his appearances for club and country, Milinkovic-Savic has built up a reputation for his goal contributions. Last season, he hit 11 goals and assisted the same number and has directly contributed 109 goals in 294 Lazio appearances.
Milinkovic-Savic update amid De Jong claim
As for De Jong, Barcelona president Joan Laporta has revealed that he has received offers for the Dutchman.
However, Laporta has not accepted them because he wants talks with De Jong and clarity over his thinking.
Barca head coach Xavi added: “We’ve had private conversations that are very important and that I will not reveal here.
“He’s a key player, but then there’s the economic situation and Financial Fair Play.”
Serie A star would be fantastic signing
With both Man Utd and Arsenal looking for a new midfielder this summer, Milinkovic-Savic would be a brilliant capture.
He has won three trophies with Lazio and has been a great servant. Still, the Serie A title may elude him.
And as he approaches his prime, a new challenge in the Premier League could take him to the next level.