Transfer News: Manchester United reach verbal agreement with Sergej Milinkovic-Savic

Manchester United have reportedly reached a verbal agreement with Serie A star Sergej Milinkovic-Savic after holding talks with his agent in London.

As per a report from Italian publication Corriere dello Sport, Premier League heavyweights Manchester United have arrived at an agreement with Lazio and Serbia midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic over a five-year contract. However, the Red Devils are yet to agree a transfer fee with his club, with negotiations underway.

Milinkovic-Savic has been on Manchester United’s radar for quite a while now. The 20-time English champions were keen on signing the Serbian last summer, but no move materialized. However, amid concerns over the immediate future of superstar Paul Pogba at the club, United have rekindled their interest in the midfielder and are hoping to get a deal over the line.

Speculations surrounding Pogba have dominated the headlines all summer. While the World Cup winner has been a model professional throughout Manchester United’s pre-season campaign, Real Madrid remain optimistic of landing the Frenchman in the coming days, which could have led to the Red Devils plotting a move for Milinkovic-Savic before the English transfer window closes.

Milinkovic-Savic has established himself as one of the most exciting midfielders in the Serie A since joining Lazio in the summer of 2015. The 24-year-old did not enjoy the best of the 2018-19 season, finishing with 7 goals and 3 assists from 41 matches across all competitions. The midfielder definitely has the ability to directly replace Pogba at Manchester United.

The Red Devils have been locked in talks with Milinkovic-Savic’s agent Mateja Kezman to hash out a deal and as per the aforementioned report, they have made a breakthrough in negotiations. Manchester United have reportedly agreed on a five-year contract for the Serbian international worth £6 million with performance-related add-ons.

However, the Premier League giants are yet to agree on a transfer fee with Lazio for the midfield star. As per the report, the Serie A outfit value Milinkovic-Savic at €90 million and would want the entire fee paid upfront. Manchester United though, are willing to table an offer of €75 million with an additional €15 in bonuses.

Lazio manager Simone Inzaghi claimed last week that Milinkovic-Savic could be on the move before the transfer window closes. However, any move for the 24-year-old from Manchester United’s part is likely to hinge on how the Pogba deal moves forward.

With less than two weeks left for the English transfer window to close, Manchester United will need to act fast or risk losing Pogba to Real Madrid without a proper replacement in place.