Transfer News

Report: Chelsea make move to sign £60m midfielder, but there’s two problems after making contact

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Chelsea have reportedly been hit with two main problems after making contact for Lazio midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.

According to Calciomercato, Chelsea and Arsenal both spoke with Lazio’s sporting director at the end of last month to discuss Milinkovic-Savic.

It is understood there were two main issues for the Premier League clubs after talking with director Igli Tare, though.

First of all, Milinkovic-Savic isn’t too keen on the idea of moving to London to either Chelsea or rivals Arsenal.

The report adds the 27-year-old has a sizeable price tag on his head that’s resulted in no concrete offers for him so far in this summer transfer window. Serie A club Lazio want at least €70million (£60million) for the left-footed midfielder, with a valuation of between €70-80m.

SS Lazio Training Session
Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images

Chelsea contact for Milinkovic-Savic

Thomas Tuchel’s Blues have strengthened their defence and attack so far this summer with new signings, but it sounds like they are open to adding another midfielder.

Milinkovic-Savic, 27, is a central midfielder with a lot of quality and potential. However, his huge asking price is a sticking point.

He finished last season with 11 goals and 12 assists across all competitions from the centre of the park, highlighting the fact he’s an all-action midfielder that’s strong in most areas.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t sound like a move to England is on the cards anytime soon.

Lazio v Hellas Verona - Serie A
Photo by Giuseppe Maffia/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Blues midfield

There’s a new face in the midfield at Stamford Bridge this season in Conor Gallagher, who’s returned from a successful loan spell at Crystal Palace last year.

It’s always exciting to sign a marquee player, but 22-year-old England international deserves his shot to break into Thomas Tuchel’s side this campaign. In many ways he does feel like a new recruit this summer.

Gallagher, who’s reportedly in line for a new contract, has the potential to be a genuine goalscoring option from midfield for Chelsea.

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