Man Utd rekindle interest in long-term target after Rabiot disappointment; Red Devils ‘come forward’ for midfielder

After missing out on Adrien Rabiot, Manchester United could reportedly switch their attention to signing Lazio midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic. 

It’s no secret that Erik ten Hag is looking to bolster his midfield this summer. But, his plans received a major blow when Rabiot signed a new contract with Juventus.

Now, the manager has been forced to look for alternatives. And, he could look to bring in Milinkovic-Savic, who looks likely to leave Lazio.

The need for midfield reinforcements has just become more important for Man Utd, too.

This is due to the fact that Scott McTominay continues to be linked with a move away from Old Trafford. Also, Fred is expected to sign for Fulham this summer.

With that in mind, Ten Hag will need to bring in a couple of new midfielders ahead of next season. They are still working on a deal for Mason Mount, but, they probably need to sign someone else, too.

As mentioned, Man Utd had ‘held talks’ with Rabiot and they were confident they could sign him on a free transfer.

However, in a last-minute twist, the France international opted to sign a new contract at Juventus.

READ MORE: Move ‘almost certain’ as Man Utd overtake Liverpool for £26m defender who feels Klopp can’t fulfil main wish 

Man Utd consider Milinkovic-Savic move

According to Gazzetta dello Sport journalist Carlo Laudisa, the next midfielder on Ten Hag’s transfer wishlist is Milinkovic-Savic.

Man Utd have been linked with a move for the Lazio star for the past three years or so. However, the Italian club have never been willing to sell him.

But, that may be about to change. Milinkovic-Savic’s current contract is set to expire in June 2024. So, to avoid losing him on a free transfer, Lazio may opt to sell the 28-year-old now. As a result, Man Utd may finally stand a chance of signing him.

When asked about Milinkovic-Savic’s links with a move away from Lazio, Laudisa told Kiss Kiss Radio: “Manchester United are coming forward due to Rabiot’s likely stay in Turin.”

Since joining Lazio in 2015, he has made 341 appearances across all competitions. In the process, he has scored 69 goals and made 59 assists.

A versatile player, Milinkovic-Savic can play as an attacking or defensive midfielder. Therefore, he could provide cover across the midfield for Man Utd.

He is also a regular in the Serbia national team, so there is certainly no doubting his quality.

In terms of how much Milinkovic-Savic would cost, it isn’t clear. Transfermarkt value him at approximately £50m, though, so Man Utd may need to make a bid in that region to have any chance of signing him.

READ MORE: Everton star ‘asks to leave’ amid links with Liverpool and Man Utd in major blow to Sean Dyche