According to a revelation courtesy of le10sport, Man City have joined the race to sign Lazio midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic – and the Sky Blues face competition from European giants Paris-Saint Germain, Man United and Real Madrid.
The 6ft 3 powerhouse, who has started 24 Serie A games for the capital club this campaign, is reportedly at the centre of interest from a host of top clubs including City – but PSG and Real are apparently the most likely to secure his signature.
Indeed, PSG sporting director Leonardo has already made a €60 million offer, but the supposed bid wasn’t enough in Lazio’s eyes – potentially gifting the Sky Blues a chance to register their own intent.
Should City sign Milinkovic-Savic?
Yes, absolute colossus, bring him in
No, we don't need him
Drawing comparisons with City legend Yaya Toure in the past, Milinkovic-Savic towers over the majority of his opponents in midfield – winning 3.6 aerial duels per game on average according to WhoScored.
These numbers eclipse those of Pep Guardiola’s entire squad, with our statistically most potent aerial threat John Stones winning 3.1 per 90 by comparison.
Impressive figures for an attacking midfielder, the Serbian international also attempts two shots per game and has scored four goals over the Serie A campaign.
However, despite some highlights, it is debatable whether Guardiola would be impressed with his ability to retain the ball.
The 25-year-old has amassed a meagre 77.9% pass accuracy this campaign, all the while being dispossessed more times than any City player on average bar Raheem Sterling.
Lazio would also reportedly command a fee of around £89 million for the player, making it debatable whether we should swoop for his signature.
Only time will tell if we follow through on this interest, but one thing is for certain, there are positives and negatives to be considered.