SERGEJ MILINKOVIC-SAVIC UNINTERESTED IN JOINING ARSENAL, NEWCASTLE

          SERGEJ MILINKOVIC-SAVIC UNINTERESTED IN JOINING ARSENAL, NEWCASTLE

According to the print edition of Corriere dello Sport, as relayed by Sport Witness, Arsenal and Newcastle United have been dealt a major blow in their pursuit of Sergej Milinkovic-Savic. The Serbian midfielder is not considering either of the two as appealing destinations amid competition from Manchester United. Sergej Milinkovic-Savic joined Lazio in 2015 from KRC Genk and has since racked up 58 goals and 51 assists in 294 appearances. He has not only established himself in Serie A but has been regarded as one of the best midfielders in Europe for a while now thanks to his consistent displays.

The versatile midfielder was a vital cog in Maurizio Sarri’s squad last season, and unsurprisingly picked up his club’s Player of the Year award for the second successive campaign off the back of an impressive 23 goal contributions in 47 games (11 goals, 12 assists).

Milinkovic-Savic’s contract runs out in 2024, with his agent insisting that his client will not stay in Rome and is looking for a summer exit. Lazio are expecting offers in the region of €60-70 million offer for the Serb and would be open to cash in on their prized asset if such an offer arrives. But as of now, no official bids have been tabled, despite heavy interest.

Premier League clubs Arsenal and Newcastle United are said to be the leading contenders for the Serbian maestro’s signature, having contacted the player’s agent. But neither destination is regarded to be appealing enough for Milinkovic-Savic.

According to talkSPORT, Arsenal are yet to make a bid for priority target Youri Tielemans due to doubts over the player’s physicality. Milinkovic Savic, on the other hand, stands at 6ft 3in and is a powerful midfield operator who ticks a lot of boxes but would have been an expensive alternative.