Manchester United identify ‘Lazio’s Sergej Milinkovic-Savic as an alternative to Frenkie de Jong 

Ciro Immobile-Sergej Milinkovic-Savic-Lazio

Manchester United are looking to sign Lazio’s Sergej Milinkovic-Savic as an alternative for Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong.

The Premier League giants have been trying unsuccessfully to bring De Jong to Old Trafford this season. But are now looking to get an alternative, as it appears that the Dutchman is unwilling to join them.

According to Calcio Mercato via Sportsmail, United manager Erik ten Hag has set up a list of viable alternatives, including Serbian Milinkovic-Savic.

The Lazio midfielder is a deep-lying playmaker and will be a perfect substitute should the Red Devils miss out on De Jong. 

However, the 27-year-old will not come cheap, with Lazio requesting at least €70million (£59.5m) for the player who has scored 48 goals for Lazio in seven years with the Serie A club.

United’s Premier League rivals Arsenal were thought to be interested in Milinkovic-Savic at one point this summer but withdrew because of the asking price.

But if United can pay the sum that Lazio are demanding, it is believed the Roma-based side would not resist the transfer, although they might have preferred a sale earlier in the transfer window.

Meanwhile, Milinkovic-Savic has never expressed an opinion to leave Rome, but given that he has just two years remaining on his contract, the opportunity might have come at the right time.

Milinkovic-Savic scored 11 goals and made 11 assists for Lazio last season.