5 midfielders who could replace Paul Pogba at Manchester United

2. Sergej Milinkovic-Savic

The Lazio midfielder has been key in his team's fairytale domestic season

Lazio’s rise in the Serie A this season has been accredited to their red-hot goalscorer Ciro Immobile, who currently leads the race for the prestigious European Golden Shoe award above the likes of Robert Lewandowski and Cristiano Ronaldo. However, the Italian club’s impressive Serie A run has much to do with their industrious presence in midfield: Sergej Milinkovic-Savic. The Serbian midfielder has previously attracted significant interest from Manchester United and it would not be a surprise if the Premier League giants swoop in for him again this summer.

The 24-year-old is already an established player in the Italian first division and in the Serbian national team, playing a key role for club and country. His recent winner against league rivals Inter Milan was another portrayal of his immense talent and ability as he steered Lazio above Antonio Conte’s side and within one point of reigning champions and current leaders Juventus.

The midfielder’s momentous match-winner ups his goal-contribution tally to 12 for the season in all competitions which is an impressive return for a central-midfielder. Apart from his obvious attacking intent, Milnkovic-Savic’s other attributes include robustness, tirelessness and an excellent command of the game. Manchester United’s midfielders have often been criticised for their submissive and unassertive nature, however, in Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, they will not only have a strong and athletic number eight on their hands but also someone capable of turning matches on their heads.