Lazio line up replacement for Arsenal target Sergej Milinkovic-Savic

Lazio have set their sights on Bologna midfielder Lewis Ferguson as a potential replacement for the sought-after Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, according to TuttoMercatoWeb.

Milinkovic-Savic has long been linked with a move away from the Stadio Olimpico, but Lazio have been determined to keep him at the club.

The Serbia international’s current deal with the Biancocelesti runs out in 2024, and the player is a target for several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal and Newcastle United.

Lazio president Claudio Lotito has reiterated that the 28-year-old is not for sale while claiming a new deal is in the works for the midfielder.

However, if new contract terms are not sorted with the former Genk man soon, the club may be forced into a sale this summer to avoid losing him on a free transfer.

Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United and West Ham United have also been credited with an interest in Milinkovic-Savic, and Lazio may have to loosen their stance on the player’s future, especially if he pushes for a move away.

The Biancocelesti have begun scouring the market for a replacement if their bid to convince their star player to extend his stay beyond 2024 fails.

Lazio could find themselves needing midfield reinforcements in July, with Luis Alberto’s future also uncertain as his contract expires this summer.

Bologna’s Ferguson has caught the eye this season and is seen as a potential replacement if Milinkovic-Savic leaves at the end of the season.

The 23-year-old joined Thiago Motta’s side in a €3.5 million move from Scottish Premiership club Aberdeen last summer.

However, he has wasted no time dazzling the Italian top flight with his impressive displays, scoring four goals in 21 Serie A games.

Lazio are still monitoring the Scotsman’s development at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara, but a move could depend on the situation surrounding Milinkovic-Savic and Alberto.