Manchester United target Sergej Milinkovic-Savic would "jump at the opportunity" to move to Old Trafford this summer, believes journalist Pete O'Rourke.
With the club confirming that Paul Pogba will be leaving when his contract expires, Erik ten Hag is almost certain to sign a new midfielder, and O'Rourke thinks the Lazio star could be a good addition to the Dutchman's squad.
What is the latest news involving Milinkovic-Savic?
FootballTransfers has reported that United have Milinkovic-Savic on a shortlist of secondary midfield options.
Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong is thought to be the Red Devils' first-choice midfield target, but FootballTransfers claims that Milinkovic-Savic is seen as a £59m alternative to the 25-year-old.
GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict
The Serbian had a strong 2021/22 season and is probably a more like-for-like replacement for Pogba than De Jong.
In 37 Serie A appearances, he scored 11 goals and provided 11 assists as Lazio went on to finish in fifth, one point ahead of their city rivals AS Roma.
De Jong to Man United is ON! Hear more on The Football Terrace...
What has O'Rourke said about Milinkovic-Savic and United?
O'Rourke thinks Milinkovic-Savic has proven himself in Serie A and would now jump at the chance to join United this summer.
Discussing the possibility of the Serbia international replacing Pogba at Old Trafford, the journalist told GIVEMESPORT: "I think he's proved himself in Italy; he's played at the highest level in Serie A. He's had a really good season this year under Maurizio Sarri.
"I think Lazio are sort of wary and expecting offers for him this summer, and I think if they do come calling, Manchester United, I'm sure the player would jump at the opportunity of going there. His goals and assists record has been pretty good, so it's something that he could bring to the Manchester United midfield next season if he is to arrive."
Should Milinkovic-Savic be higher up on United's list?
Yes, especially with Pogba going. As O'Rourke mentioned, the 27-year-old is the kind of midfielder who is going to bring goals and assists to the side. In general, he is a real attacking threat.
Among his positional peers over the last year, he has ranked in the 90th percentile for shot-creating actions, 98th for touches in the penalty area and, again, the 98th for progressive passes received (via FBref).
He would be a great alternative to De Jong, but looking at all of the above, perhaps the former Genk man should be viewed as something more than that.