Arsenal and Chelsea have had initial signing talks – Both clubs shaken by asking price

Arsenal and Chelsea have tested the ground for Lazio’s Sergej Milinković-Savić, according to claims from Italy.

With the midfielder potentially leaving the Serie A side this summer, the north London club and the Blues have ‘seriously thought about’ him.

That’s according to Calciomercato, who state there have been ‘exploratory contacts’ from both Arsenal and Chelsea for the 27-year-old.

Igli Tare, the Italian club’s sporting director, made a trip to English capital at the end of June. During his time in London, he held talks with the Premier League duo. They came across ‘two obstacles’ to secure the player’s services.

The Serbia international wasn’t immediately keen on the idea of joining Arsenal or Chelsea. The second issue was Lazio chairman Claudio Lotito asking for at least €70-80m fee.

Therefore, it’s insisted that despite earlier claims otherwise, Lazio have not received any concrete offers for the former Genk man.

Milinković-Savić was chosen to launch Lazio’s third kit for the 2022/23 season. This is now viewed as an ‘important signal’ that the two parties will move forward together despite the rumours.