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Arsenal 'handed boost in Sergej Milinkovic-Savic pursuit'

By Ben Sully | 06 February 2023

Arsenal 'handed boost in Milinkovic-Savic pursuit'

Arsenal reportedly receive a boost in their pursuit of Lazio midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, who could be a potential alternative to West Ham United's Declan Rice.

Arsenal have reportedly been handed a boost in their pursuit of Lazio midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.

The Serbia international has continuously been linked with a move away from the Stadio Olimpico over the last few years, but a transfer has never materialised.

Milinkovic-Savic has been with Lazio since 2015, and he has gone on to make 322 appearances for the club, scoring 64 goals and providing 59 assists.

However, with his contract set to expire in June 2024, his future at the Italian club remains uncertain.

A recent report claimed that Arsenal have made contact with the player's agent over a potential transfer in the summer transfer window.

Serbia's Sergej Milinkovic-Savic celebrates scoring against Cameroon at the World Cup on November 28, 2022 © Reuters

Although the Gunners signed Jorginho from London rivals Chelsea in January, they are still keen to strengthen their midfield.

West Ham United's Declan Rice is reportedly viewed as Arsenal's primary midfield target, but they are expected to face competition from the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea.

If the Gunners are unable to sign the England international, Milikovic-Savic could be a viable alternative.

Although Milinkovic-Savic has previously been linked with the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea, Real Madrid and Barcelona, Arsenal are to be in pole position to secure his signature.

According to Corriere dello Sport via Sport Witness, Milinkovic-Savic has already decided that he wants to leave the club in the summer as he is desperate to play Champions League football.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta pictured in February 2023 © Reuters

Lazio have only been involved in one Champions League campaign while Milinkovic-Savic has been at the club, reaching the last 16 in the 2020-21 season.

Although Lazio are currently sat in fourth place, their position in the top four is far from secure, with Atalanta BC and AC Milan just a point further back.

Arsenal, meanwhile, are currently top of the Premier League table, and they look set to qualify for the Champions League at a canter.

Although Mikel Arteta's side lost 1-0 to Everton on Saturday, Manchester City's defeat to Tottenham Hotspur ensured that the Gunners maintained their five-point lead.