Opening Bid: Manchester United Make Opening Bid for ‘Unbelievable’ De Jong Alternative; £55 million Offer Should Be Accepted
According to Jason Burt of The Telegraph, Manchester United have begun looking at alternative targets to Frenkie de Jong, and it seems the club have turned their attention to Lazio and Serbian international midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic. The “unbelievable” Serie A star has shone throughout his time in Italy making 231 appearances for the Rome-based club, scoring 48 goals and providing 41 assists.
The Red Devils have, according to Corriere dello Sport, made an opening bid for Milinkovic-Savic, but this has been rejected. One of £55 Million is said to be likely to be accepted, though.
Sergej Milinkovic-Savic: Manchester United Target Serbian International as Erik ten Hag Targets Midfield Reinforcements
Serbian International Identified as Frenkie de Jong Alternative
After a largely frustrating summer pursuing De Jong, it looks like Manchester United are looking at alternative targets, with the Red Devils identifying Adrien Rabiot and Milinkovic-Savic as potential midfield reinforcements.
The Serbian international enjoyed an impressive campaign for Lazio last season, helping the club to a top five finish. At 27 years old, the central midfielder offers a wealth of experience which would be beneficial to Manchester United in this transitional period under Erik ten Hag. The 34-capped Serbian international recorded an impressive pass completion rate of 82% in Serie A last season, a quality which is sorely lacking in the Old Trafford midfield.
What Qualities the Lazio Midfielder Would Bring to Manchester United
Milinkovic-Savic possesses several attributes which would immediately improve the Manchester United team. He excels in a slightly deeper role where he can get on the ball and dictate games. The Serbian would bring a tremendous amount of experience and ability to the United engine room.
He brings a will to win and impressive stamina, something of which there is a distinct deficit in Ten Hag’s team. He would also add a greater physical presence to this rather small Manchester side, which along with his excellent passing would bring a much-needed boost to a team lacking in confidence.
