Club now keen to sell £11m Arsenal target, he wants to join the Gunners

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Arsenal have been given a boost in their pursuit of Sergej Milinkovic-Savic as Lazio have now decided to sell.

What’s the story?

Well, it was Corriere dello Sport who revealed that Arsenal had made contact with the Serbia international’s representatives as they aim to bring him to the Emirates Stadium.

Interestingly, Milinkovic-Savic is said to be interested in joining the Gunners – according to La Repubblica journalist Giulio Cardone in La Lazio Siamo Noi.

Now, a deal could start to materialise, as Lazio have given up on contract negotiations – as detailed by Calciomercato.

Milinkovic-Savic will have just 12 months remaining on his contract at the end of the season, and Lazio are said to have no interest in allowing their most valuable asset to enter that stage of his deal.

The Serie A side have attempted to tie their No.21 down to fresh terms, although after making what is described as zero progress by the Italian news outlet, they have decided to sell.

Milinkovic-Savic cost Lazio just €12m (£11m) when they signed him from Genk in 2015.

The Serbian’s rapid rise in Italy has since seen that valuation soar – Lazio President Claudio Lotito now values him at €120m (£106m).

Speaking to Il Messaggero, the 65-year-old said: “I am not selling Milinkovic-Savic. I will offer him (a contract) renewal. Today, he is worth €120m (around £106m).”

Those comments were made a couple of months ago, and it seems his stance on selling the midfield maestro has changed – however, it remains to be seen if the price tag has as well.

Arsenal must take advantage of Milinkovic-Savic availability

Whether Edu makes a move now, or in the summer, Arsenal must take advantage of this situation.

Milinkovic-Savic is one of the best technicians in Europe, who can also get around the pitch with ease thanks to his 6 ft 4 in frame.

The Spain-born technician also boasts impressive end product, having scored five goals while also providing seven assists in 22 appearances so far this season.

Mikel Arteta already has some excellent midfield options such as Granit Xhaka, Martin Ødegaard and Thomas Partey, although he does not have a presence like the Lazio No.21 in the middle of the park.

For now, a deal for Mykhaylo Mudryk should take priority, but Arteta and Edu must keep an eye on the Milinkovic-Savic situation.