In the world of football, few players have left a mark quite like Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, the Serbian midfielder whose legacy with Lazio still resonates with fans and pundits alike. Now, as discussions of a potential return to Italy heat up, the 30-year-old’s future is a hot topic in the football community.
On May 7, 2025, reports surfaced indicating that Milinkovic-Savic, currently with Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, is available for transfer at a surprisingly affordable price. Having spent eight illustrious years with Lazio, where he made 341 appearances, scored 69 goals, and provided 58 assists, he became a club icon before moving to Al-Hilal in the summer of 2023 for a hefty fee of €40 million.
Despite his success in the Saudi Pro League, where he has scored 10 goals in 26 appearances this season, Milinkovic-Savic is not considered untouchable by his current club. According to Calciomercato, Al-Hilal might let him go for around €22-23 million, a price that many Serie A clubs could find appealing.
Milinkovic-Savic’s time at Lazio was marked by consistent growth and formidable performances. He was scouted by Lazio's Igli Tare, who signed him for nearly €10 million on August 6, 2015. Since then, he has been a pivotal figure in the midfield, known for his technical skills and scoring ability. His departure to Al-Hilal was a significant moment, as he was pursued by several European giants but chose to remain loyal to Lazio until the end.
In Saudi Arabia, Milinkovic-Savic has thrived. His performances have been nothing short of impressive, contributing significantly to Al-Hilal's successes, including winning the Saudi Super Cup and advancing to the semifinals of the Asian Champions League. His ability to adapt and excel in a new environment has only bolstered his reputation as one of the top midfielders in the game.
However, whispers of a return to Lazio emerged in January 2025 when intermediaries attempted to negotiate a deal. Unfortunately, those talks did not progress beyond preliminary discussions, largely due to Al-Hilal's valuation of the player and his high wages. Yet, the prospect of a move back to Serie A remains alive, especially as Milinkovic-Savic has expressed a desire to compete at the highest levels in Europe once again.
His potential return is not just a personal ambition; it could also serve as a strategic opportunity for several Italian clubs. Teams like Juventus, Inter, and Milan, all of whom are looking to bolster their midfield options, might see Milinkovic-Savic as an ideal addition. The player’s experience in Serie A and his proven track record make him an attractive target, particularly at a time when clubs are looking to enhance their squads ahead of the new season.
As discussions continue, the focus shifts to how clubs will navigate the summer transfer market. With Milinkovic-Savic's contract at Al-Hilal set to expire in June 2026, the window for a potential transfer is narrowing. Should a club step forward with an offer in the region of €22-23 million, it could lead to a swift resolution.
Fans of Lazio, in particular, are keenly watching the situation unfold. The prospect of Milinkovic-Savic returning to the Stadio Olimpico is tantalizing, and his previous contributions to the club have left an indelible mark that many supporters would love to see rekindled. The midfielder's blend of skill, vision, and leadership could be exactly what Lazio needs to push for greater success in the upcoming seasons.
Moreover, the Italian football landscape is ever-evolving, and the addition of a player of Milinkovic-Savic's caliber could shift the balance of power in Serie A. As clubs prepare for the summer transfer window, the Serbian's name will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of discussions.
In conclusion, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic's future is one to watch as the summer approaches. With his impressive performances in Saudi Arabia and a potential return to Europe on the horizon, the football world is abuzz with speculation. Will he don the Lazio jersey once more, or will another Serie A club seize the opportunity to secure his talents? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the story of Milinkovic-Savic is far from over.
