Arsenal look set to re-ignite their interest in Lazio star Sergej Milinkovic-Savic ahead of the summer transfer window. The Gunners were heavily linked with a move for the Serbian international before the start of the 2022/23 season, but a transfer could not be agreed.
Mikel Arteta and Edu will certainly be faced with a tough battle if they decide to make a formal move for Milinkovic-Savic with Lazio President Claudio Lotito a big admirer of his star player. Lotito recently described him as the "best midfielder in the world" and suggested his price tag of €120million (£103.2m) increases every month.
However, Lotito may be forced to lower his demand in the summer as the 27-year-old is not interested in signing a new Lazio contract, with his current deal set to expire in 2024.
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Chelsea also have an interest in Milinkovic-Savic, while Real Madrid, by his own admission would be his dream destination. Remaining in Italy could be a high priority for Milinkovic-Savic though, with Juventus as the team most-likely to make a move. With that in mind, football.london has taken a look at all the latest news tying him with the Gunners.
Fresh enquiry
After missing out on Milinkovic-Savic last season, Arsenal look set to head back into this summer's transfer window with a view to acquiring the services of the 27-year-old.
Relevo claim that the Gunners have made an enquiry over Milinkovic-Savic's availability with Mikel Arteta and Edu preparing the ground work over a potential summer swoop.
Juventus stance
Given that he has recently become a father and that his brother plays for Torino, Milinkovic-Savic would not be against remaining in Italy.
Juventus have held previous interest in him but their current financial situation indicates a move would be difficult to complete, but Relevo does not rule out the Old Lady replacing Adrien Rabiot, who looks set to depart in the summer, with Milinkovic-Savic
Significant price drop
With Milinkovic-Savic's contract up in 2024, Lazio will likely need to make a decision soon on whether or not they allow him to depart in the summer.
If a move away from the club is sanctioned it's unlikely interested clubs would be too keen to pay the price tag which Claudio Lotito claimed in October to be €120million (£103.2m).
Spanish outlet Relevo are reporting that Lazio could drop their asking price in the summer down to €40-50million (£34.3-42.9m) which would certainly be more appealing for interested clubs.
President claim
Lazio president Claudio Lotito has not been shy in showing his desire to keep Milinkovic-Savic at the club with him still trying to convince the Serb to stay beyond his current deal.
Following his goal at the World Cup, Lotito said: "Guess how much he's worth - he scored a goal at the World Cup with his ankle injured and he's the best midfielder in the world."
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