Nikola Milenkovic has grown frustrated at the slow progress of discussions with West Ham, Wolves and Tottenham Hotspur, and could now stay at Fiorentina, according to Sky Sports.
The Premier League rivals have each contended for the Serbian’s signature this summer as they improve their respective defences. But neither has yet made sufficient progress with their pursuits to convince the 23-year-old of a move to England.
West Ham was Milenkovic’s most likely destination away from Fiorentina, but David Moyes pulled the plug on a deal. The Irons boss was not 100% convinced the 28-cap international was the right fit for the London Stadium natives’ backline.
West Ham offered Fiorentina €16m (£13.5m) after seeing an initial €13m (£11m) rejected, per Corriere dello Sport. But Firenze Viola report West Ham’s chase also collapsed due to the commission the Serbian’s agent had demanded during negotiations.
Wolves have also only made tepid steps towards a deal with Fiorentina due to the finances involved. While The Times report Tottenham have made Milenkovic their prime defensive target as a move for Kurt Zouma is unlikely. But the Serbian may also be out of reach.
Milenkovic is increasingly likely to stay at Fiorentina as interest from West Ham, Wolves and Tottenham dwindles. He is considering signing a new contract with La Viola, as well, and should feature against Jose Mourinho’s Roma in their Serie A curtain-raiser on Friday.
Fiorentina confident West Ham and Tottenham target Milenkovic will sign contract
While Sky Sports report Milenkovic is considering a new contract, TuttoMercatoWEB claim Fiorentina are confident the West Ham, Wolves and Tottenham target will agree on terms.
La Viola manager Vincenzo Italiano backs Milenkovic wholeheartedly, and the defender feels his confidence – which Irons boss Moyes seemingly lacked. Now, there is hope in Tuscany of the Serbian staying past his £25,000-per-week deal that expires next summer.
Fiorentina have made agreeing new terms with Milenkovic a priority after agreeing to sell German Pezzella to Real Betis. TMW note the Serie A outfit will make €4m (£3.5m) through selling the 30-year-old, who has agreed a four-year contract.
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