Arsenal have been on the hunt for a world-class midfielder for some time, and it looks like their search has come to an end. According to Corriere dello Sport, Arsenal could sign Sergej Milinkovic-Savic this summer for a fee of £35 million. The 27-year-old Serbia international is set to see his contract expire at Lazio in 18 months and Arsenal are reportedly keen admirers of the midfielder.
Milinkovic-Savic is an exciting prospect and has all the necessary attributes that Arsenal need in order to take their midfield to the next level. He is strong and powerful, with excellent technical ability. He is also known as one of the best passers in Serie A, with his exquisite vision and accuracy allowing him to carve open defences with ease. On top of that, he also possesses great leadership skills, which will be invaluable for Arsenal if they are looking to build a successful squad moving forward.
Furthermore, Milinkovic-Savic’s versatility ensures he can fit into any system Arsenal may choose to play under Mikel Arteta’s guidance. His ability to play both as a box-to-box midfielder or deeper lying playmaker make him perfect for Arsenal’s style of play. Additionally, Arsenal could benefit from his presence off the ball as well – he has proven himself capable of winning aerial balls and making key interceptions within his own half; two areas Arsenal often struggle with during games.
At £35 million, Arsenal would be getting a bargain in signing Milinkovic-Savic this summer. There are few midfielders out there who offer such quality at that price tag – aside from Christian Eriksen who has recently been linked with Arsenal – so it may be worth taking a punt on him now before his possible transfer value increases when his current contract runs out next year.
The signing of Milinkovic-Savic would be a major statement of intent from Arsenal that they mean business next season – especially if they qualify for Champions League football again too. With Arsenal jersey proudly emblazoned over his chest, Milinkovic-Savic could become a key part in helping Arsenal compete at the top level once again on both domestic and European fronts this season and beyond.
The report suggests that Milinkovic-Savic is in demand across Europe, however a move to the Premier League appears most likely. Newcastle United and West Ham United are amongst those who have been rumoured to be targeting the midfielder. Arsenal would be wise to move quickly and make sure they are the team he ends up signing for this summer. Arsenal fans will certainly hope that it is Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal jersey Milinkovic-Savic wears next season. It could well be the answer to Arsenal’s search for a world-class midfielder.
Only time will tell if Arsenal manage to pull off the deal and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic become an Arsenal player in the coming months, but it certainly looks like one of Arsenal’s most sought after transfer targets could finally be heading to Emirates Stadium this summer.
