Sergej Milinkovic-Savic: Maurizio Sarri rules out Serie A switch for Lazio midfielder | OneFootball

Lazio manager Maurizio Sarri has stressed that the club will try to hold on to midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic this summer but vowed to keep him away from other Serie A sides if he does depart.

The 27-year-old has been tipped to leave Lazio for what feels like an eternity, but with just two years remaining on his contract, there have been suggestions that this summer could finally be the time for Milinkovic-Savic to exit.

Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain have both looked at the Serbia international, while 90min understands that Fulham are ready to test their luck with a bid for Milinkovic-Savic fronted by his team-mate at international level, Aleksandar Mitrovic.

Over in Italy, it's Juventus who have been touted as suitors for Milenkovic-Savic, but Sarri appeared to rule the Bianconeri out of the race.

“Speaking to the President, I have become convinced that if Milinkovic does leave, and that will not happen easily, he will not remain in Italy,” Sarri said.

Juventus are expected to prioritise a move for Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba, who is out of contract this summer and set to walk away from Old Trafford for free for a second time.

Maurizio Arrivabene, Juve CEO, recently denied reports that they have already spoken with Pogba's representatives, insisting they have a gentleman's agreement with United that would see them seek the Red Devils' permission first - even without any legal obligation to do so.

As for Milinkovic-Savic, he took to the mic after scoring the equaliser in Monday's 2-2 draw with Juventus to voice his delight at working under Sarri.

“I improved under Sarri, I scored 11 goals and provided 11 assists, so I can say this has been the best season of my career," he told Sky Sport Italia. "Next season, we need a few more players so we can aim for the Champions League places.”