Chelsea and Lazio ‘held talks’ this week over a potential deal for Serbian midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, according to reports.
The 27-year-old scored 11 goals and provided 11 assists in 37 Serie A matches last season.
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He has been linked with Manchester United in the past, however, the Red Devils are no longer pursuing a deal.
This has opened the door for the likes of Chelsea, Newcastle United and Arsenal, who are all believed to be keen.
A report last week suggested that Milinkovic-Savic has no interest in joining the Magpies or Gunners as he aims to play in the Champions League.
The Serbian international is reportedly available for €65million – which is the ‘maximum’ his representatives think he is worth – after Lazio previously asked for between €70-100m.
According to Italian outlet Corriere Dello Sport (via Sport Witness), Lazio director Igli Tare arrived in London this week to discuss transfers.
Chelsea reportedly interested in signing Sergej Milinkovic-Savic? 👀 #CFC #ChelseaFC pic.twitter.com/AAxRqz8VM3
— Dainéil Ó Corra (@ua_Corra) June 17, 2022
Tare spoke to Chelsea on Friday, with manager Maurizio Sarri keen on signing goalkeeper Kepa, left-back Emerson Palmieri and midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
The Blues used the opportunity to open discussions over a potential deal to sign Milinkovic-Savic.
If Lazio receive a ‘top offer’ they will allow the Serbian to leave and the Premier League side have no ‘certified’ their interest.
Milinkovic-Savic is out of contract in 2024 so the Biancocelesti are not in a rush to sell, although they would like to receive a fee for the player at some point, as opposed to losing him on a free transfer in two years’ time.
Another Serie A outfit that Chelsea are negotiating with this summer is Inter Milan, who want to re-sign Romelu Lukaku.
After a difficult first season back at Stamford Bridge following his club-record £97m signing from Inter, the club and player have reportedly come to an agreement that a loan move this summer is the best solution for both parties.
Chelsea are believed to be asking for a £20m loan fee, however, the Nerazzurri are only willing to pay £7-8m for the year.
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