Real Madrid Could Be Viable To Become Next Destination For Lazio's Prized Midfielder

Zinedine Zidane is joining the logjam of club managers jockeying to acquire Sergej Milinkovic-Savic. Because of the stiff competition, the Real Madrid boss is doubling up his efforts as he has reportedly reached out to the Serbian midfielder in his attempt to gain leverage ahead of the summer transfer window.

According to a report from Le10Sport, Zidane is “refusing to give up” on Milinkovic-Savic. The move from the 47-year-old manager, though, could be treated as a last-ditch shot for the Lazio star, who has become a hot commodity in the transfer market, gaining serious interests from other clubs such as Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United and Manchester City.

Amidst the fervent talks, Lazio, which signed the 25-year-old to a contract that would last until 2024, is making it clear that there is no chance the prized youngster would be released at a rate lower than what the club demands, especially with the financial challenge served by the Coronavirus pandemic.

"We certainly don't need to sell right now," Lazio’s sporting director Igli Tare told Sky Sport Italia, via Goal. "I think a lot will change on the transfer market because the pandemic is a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence that transformed everything, so we have to be creative, but above all very clear on our planning for the present and future.”

"I think that prices won't drop for first-rate players. Obviously, for the medium and low-end players, there will be a downward trend. On Milinkovic-Savic, the boy's relationship with the city and Lazio will never die because there is a very strong bond that has grown over (the) years,” Tare added.

But despite standing firm on a non-discounted type of deal for Sergej, Tare pointed out that he is still “willing to listen” to different offers, stating that he aims at a compromise that would benefit both the player and the Italian club.

"On the other hand, considering the situation, his wishes, everything we've talked about, every situation will be evaluated at the right time without any pressure, but above all for the good of both parties.

"If there is a possibility that satisfies the club and the player, it will be taken into consideration. If there is not, he is happy and we are very happy for him to stay."

Milinkovic-Savic and Lazio are set for a return to the field as Serie A is scheduled to restart on June 20. With 12 games left to play in the season, the club looks to drop the hammer as they chase Cristiano Ronaldo and Juventus, who are ahead of them by just a hairline to lead the league standings with 63 points.