Manchester United have been linked with several defenders in the recent past and the desperation to bring defensive reinforcements in growing more and more day by day. Jose Mourinho is eager that he needs to add defensive options to Old Trafford. Reports from Sky Sports suggests that the Portuguese tactician has been monitoring Fiorentina defender Nikola Milenkovic for sometime now and has sent scouts in pursuit to secure the signature of the Serbian in January itself.
Milenkovic was plying his trade back in his home country in the Serbian Domestic League before being roped in by the La Viola back in the summer of 2017. His debut season with the Italians was mostly him getting used to life in Italy and getting his feet in the Serie A as he made 16 league appearances for the club.
The new year, saw the new rise for the youngster as he gradually became a pivotal part of Stefano Pioli’s side. Although the La Viola haven’t been their best recently with their back to back four draws in the league. Milenkovic has been impressed with his performances at the back from the right side of the defense. The 21-year old has also contributed profoundly in attack scoring two crucial goals in the process.
The Serbian defender has been on Manchester United’s radar for a couple of months now, but there have been rumours linking him with German giants Bayern Munich entering the race to compete with the Red Devils. Although Old Trafford seems a likely destination for Milenkovic as per recent reports.
It seems Mourinho has lost his faith in Antonio Valencia as he has opted for Ashley Young on the right side as a makeshift until Diogo Dalot gets back from his injury period. Valencia who happens to be the club captain hasn’t shared good terms with the Portuguese tactician recently as per reports.
The Red Devils are linked with numerous players in every transfer window since last two years but the board looks like they are against any short-term fixes at the moment and looking at a prodigy like Nikola Milenkovic the deals definitely looks probable as the Serbian can be a prized possession for the club in the long run. Luring Milenkovic from Italy will come at a high price and according to reports, the defender is valued at £40 million or thereabout currently. Although looking at the demand and Manchester United’s financial power, Fiorentina will look demand a hefty price for one of their most talented prospects.
United has had their fair share of issues with centre backs and hence the need was primarily of a centre-back who can lead the backline. But the Serbian’s arrival can be very detrimental for the Red Devils, the 21-year old is versatile and can play even as a centre back if required and that also with aplomb. The deal will solve United’s two major issues at a single go and will satisfy the defensive requirement at Old Trafford.
It can be a busy winter transfer window for the Red Devils as Jose Mourinho is also considering moves for defenders like Kalidou Koulibaly and Kostas Manolas to bring them to Old Trafford.
