Sporting director drops major hint over Man Utd target as Ten Hag considers cut-price deal
Lazio’s sporting director has given a key hint at a long-term goal for Manchester United that Erik ten Hag has been considering recently.
Man Utd are almost on target in the race for the top 4 and planning for next season is about to begin.
The return of Champions League football at Old Trafford will be a huge incentive for big players from across Europe to join Ten Hag’s project.
In fact, they’ve even been linked with a sensational move from Neymar lately. Ten Hag is also looking to improve his midfield options this summer.
Lazio’s Sergej Milinkovic-Savic has been a long-term target for Man Utd and they are reportedly considering a deal again.
His contract with the Italian club expires in 2024 so he could potentially be available at a cheaper price. Lazio’s sporting director Igli Tare has provided an update on his situation.
“We will meet soon to discuss the situation. Anything can happen, it’s also possible that Sergei will be sold to another club,” said Fabrizio Romano Twitter.
“He likes and respects the club, the coach and the president.”
The 28-year-old has been in fine form for Lazio this year. He was one of the standout players in Serie A and helped Lazio to third place in the table.
With seven goals and eight assists this season, Marcus Rashford is the only Man Utd player to have scored more goals than him this season.
Other clubs are interested
The Serbia international is in a strong position to decide his future now. Lazio would like to keep him and he could yet land a new deal with the club.
However, Lazio won’t want to lose him freely. Should he not decide to extend his contract this summer, now seems like the perfect opportunity to make money.
The price tag is reportedly around €40m (£34.7m). Considering what it’s worth to date, this seems like good value for money.
Of course, Man Utd aren’t the only club interested. Arsenal, Liverpool and Newcastle were also mentioned as interested parties.
Liverpool in particular need a midfield makeover and Milinkovic-Savic could be perfect. Jurgen Klopp’s side lack a natural goalscorer in midfield and he could easily fill that role.
Newcastle recently confirmed their place in the Champions League next season with a point against Leicester.
Eddie Howe’s side have made great strides this season and will look to strengthen their roster next year with the added competition.
The 28-year-old spent eight years at Lazio. During this time he came up with 339 missions and scored 67 goals.
Its versatility would also make it a practical target for all interested parties. He plays his best football as a forward looking midfielder but can also play a defensive role.
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