We all know Manchester United have had defensive problems all season. In the last few weeks, we’ve seen the Red Devils being linked with a move for ACF Fiorentina defender Nikola Milenkovic.

Recent reports have suggest that German giants Bayern Munich have joined United in the hunt for Milenkovic’s signature.

So why are some of Europe’s top teams looking at the twenty-one year old?

Well the 6’4″ Serbian international is versatile. He looks very strong when he’s played at right-back for his club and he can also be a dominant centre-back, as he’s shown with the Serbian national team. That shows you that the young player is both intelligent and one who possess composure on the ball.

He’s also pretty mobile and when used as a full-back he can push further forward and help out Fiorentina’s attack. He isn’t afraid to have a pop at goal either, having already scored twice in Serie A this season including an absolute stunner against Chievo!

While he’s adept and good enough to shine on the righthand side, you’ve got to believe he’ll become a regular centre-half in the future.

Many have compared Milenkovic to former Man United great and fellow Serbian Namanja Vidic, praise indeed. They do share the same combative warrior like qualities but Nikola is better than his countryman when it come to the ball being at his feet. He’s a bit of a mix between Vidic and Rio Ferdinand, which could be a sensational mix!

The recently turned twenty-one year old is also known for being able to read the game and deal with dangerous situations.

On average he has won 2.2 headers per game in Italy this season, as a centre-back playing at the World Cup for Serbia that stat was up a four aerials won per game. In Serie A, Nikola is making around 3 clearances and 1.2 tackles. He’s maybe a wee bit too eager in the challenge at times and that sees him concede a fair few free-kicks to the opposition.

If a major club were to purchase the young Serbian in the next two transfer windows, then I believe it would be on the understanding that they would be signing a defensive player that’s got limitless potential. That being said they’d also know that Nikola Milenkovic could go into the first team right away and give them a solid presence that can handle himself when he’s on the ball.

The player himself seems to have a level head on his shoulders and he’s already stated that he’s in no rush to leave this exciting Fiorentina side:

“I am happy here and I am delighted to play on a regular basis” 

“I’ve played every game of the season so far. I want to continue because playing is the most important thing for me. I hope to continue like this.”

I’d expect more clubs to show interest in the strong, versatile defender but that will only see any potential fee rise and it looks like Fiorentina will be allowed to name their price for the young talented defender.

Posted on October 27th, 2018 by scott
Filed under: Article