According to a recent report by Italian newspaper La Repubblica, Manchester United are in talks with Fiorentina defender Nikola Milenkovic’s agent over a potential move during the January transfer window. The Express has also revealed that the former United boss Jose Mourinho went to see him in action for Serbia during an international break earlier this season. However, despite Mourinho’s sacking recently, the Red Devils are prepared to push on and seal a move for the Serbian international next month.
The Rise Of Nikola Milenkovic
The Belgrad born talent grew up playing football for his boyhood club, Partizan Belgrade before earning a switch to Fiorentina in the summer of 2017. The 21-year-old has enjoyed a fantastic campaign in Florence this season and has put in a series of commanding displays at the back for Stefano Pioli’s team.
Milenkovic has made 16 appearances for the Serie A outfit this season and has two goals to his name in the league so far. At such a young age, he has also secured ten international caps for the Serbian national team and has a very promising career ahead of him in European football.
What Will He Add To Solskjær’s Team?
The Serbian sensation is a defensive powerhouse due to his aerial prowess and has the ability to overpower his opponents at both ends of the pitch. He has built a reputation for making some well-timed challenges inside his own half as he tends to keep a cool head during high-pressure situations.
The addition of Milenkovic will undoubtedly bolster Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s defensive options at Old Trafford. The Red Devils have currently got the likes of Chris Smalling, Phil Jones, Eric Bailly, Victor Lindelof and Marcos Rojo battling for a place in Solskjær’s starting XI. The Serbian will arguably be an upgrade over any of them and would also add some much-needed competition for positions within the United squad.
At 21, the Fiorentina prospect still has a long time to grow into a world-class centre-back if given a nurturing environment to improve his overall game. Solskjær should go all out to sign him next month as he has the potential to be a future star at Old Trafford.
