The Lazio midfielder’s agent claims that a buyout figure was never discussed during negotiations over a new five-year contract
Sergej Milinkovic-Savic’s new contract at Lazio does not include a release clause, claims the agent of a midfielder heavily linked with the likes of Manchester United and Real Madrid.
When news broke of the 23-year-old’s five-year deal in the Italian capital, it was suggested that a buyout fee had been inserted.
A €100 million (£89m/$115m) fee was reported to have been included as an option for Serie A rivals to acquire the Serbia international, with AC Milan and Juventus said to be on a lengthy list of suitors.
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Mateja Kezman, who represents Milinkovic-Savic, has, however, refuted claims that such an agreement was struck, with his client having merely committed to fresh terms because he wants to stay put.
“Sergej, Lazio and we in his entourage are all very happy with his new contract,” Kezman told LaLazioSiamoNoi.
“We’re looking forward with positive energy. The club is strong because they kept all of last season’s players, there’s a serious project and they want to play in the Champions League.
“So, everyone just has to concentrate on doing their best and making all the Lazio fans happy.
“No-one talked about a release clause, Sergej is very happy in Rome. He’s been here for three years and he loves the club and the city.
“He’s concentrating on recapturing his best form.”
Milinkovic-Savic is currently into his fourth season at Lazio.
His last outing was his 100th in Serie A, with his impressive performances across domestic, European and international competition having brought him to the attention of clubs around the world.
He has always maintained that his preference was to remain in Rome, and the signing of a long-term deal should help to keep him in his current surroundings for the foreseeable future.