Transfer News: Manchester United in pole position to sign Nikola Milenkovic

Manchester United are reportedly leading the Milan clubs in the race to sign Nikola Milenkovic, who is likely to leave Fiorentina in the summer.

According to Calciomercato, Fiorentina are bracing themselves for the potential departure of Nikola Milenkovic. The 23-year-old defender’s desire to not renew a contract that expires in 2022 has forced the club to consider a permanent sale in the summer, with Manchester United said to be in pole position in acquiring his services.

Since joining Fiorentina in 2017, Milenkovic has been a defensive asset for them over the past four years, becoming a first-team regular for the last two seasons. He has already notched up over 126 competitive appearances for the club, having been a mainstay at the back.

During his time with the Violas, the Serb has registered an impressive 11 goals, which is perhaps indicative of his imposing 1.95m frame that does not only make him an intimidating figure for the opposition but also gives him a considerable advantage in aerial duels while also making him an indirect threat from set-pieces.

In addition to his massive frame, Milenkovic has perfected his ability to read the game. He is not afraid to get out of his line to intercept or block a pass, which is perhaps revered by both AC Milan and Inter Milan, who are also tracking his services apart from Manchester United, especially with the Nerazzurri brace themselves for the potential departure of Chelsea-linked Milan Skriniar.

As for Manchester United, they have been linked with a move for Milenkovic for quite some time now as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer continues his search for defensive reinforcements in the summer.

Their current crop of options include Eric Bailly, Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof, who has struggled with consistency despite being given a lot of game-time by Solskjaer. Maguire, too, has had problems keeping up with his level of performance, although the Manchester United has been doing a great job recently.

Bailly, on the other hand, is reportedly unhappy with his lack of game-time and a move away from Old Trafford could be on the horizon in the summer.

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It could ideally pave the way for Milenkovic to become the main competitor for Lindelof for the central defensive partnership alongside Maguire. The Serb has a lot of experience at the highest level of football and with his contract expiring at the end of next season, he could be a smart cost-effective option in Solskjaer’s bid to bolster Manchester United’s defensive options next season.