Arsenal have reportedly received a boost in their pursuit of Lazio midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.
The Serbian has been persistently linked with a move away from the Italian capital over the past couple of years, but he has remained with Lazio, where he has established himself as a club legend.
Since joining Lazio in the summer of 2015, Milinkovic-Savic has gone on to make 328 appearances, registering 64 goals and 59 assists.
Milinkovic-Savic, who has won two Italian Super Cups and a Coppa Italia trophy, has entered the final 18 months of his current contract.
Lazio are keen to agree an extension with one of their prized assets, but it appears unlikely that Milinkovic-Savic will sign a new deal.
If the Italian club are unable to tie Milinkovic-Savic down to a new contract, they may sanction a sale in the summer transfer window, rather than risk losing him on a free transfer in 2024.
The Lazio man is currently attracting interest from a number of European clubs, including Premier League leaders Arsenal.
According to Gazzetta Dello Sport, the Gunners have received a boost in their quest to sign the 28-year-old and are now prepared to step up their pursuit.
Lazio's original asking price was believed to be €100m (£88m), but with his contract running down, they are set to drop their valuation.
The report claims that Maurizio Sarri's side may decide to accept bids in excess of €50m (£44m).
However, the player's representatives are pushing for a lower asking price, and they want Lazio to entertain offers between €35m (£31m) and €40m (£35m).
Arsenal are expected to face competition for Milinkovic-Savic's signature, with Juventus also said to be among his admirers.
Newcastle United and West Ham United are also showing an interest in the Serbia international, who has scored seven goals in 39 appearances for his country.
Milinkovic-Savic has featured in 34 games across all competitions this term, contributing six goals and eight assists.
The midfielder is expected to be involved when Lazio attempt to overturn a 2-1 deficit in Thursday's Europa Conference League meeting with AZ Alkmaar. body check tags ::
