Leeds United have enquired about a possible summer move for Torino goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic, according to Sky Sports. Signing a Premier League-quality goalkeeper has been one of Leeds’ key priorities this summer, and the 6’8” Serbian international could make a fantastic addition.
Leeds United Enquire About New Goalkeeper That Fans Have Been Waiting For
What Do We Know So Far?
Any potential move for Milinkovic-Savic appears to be in the very early stages, with Leeds currently just requesting information from Torino about the 28-year-old’s situation. According to Sky, there is a £16 million release clause in the goalkeeper’s contract, but it remains to be seen whether the Whites will aim to negotiate a lower price.
The Serbian has no shortage of potential suitors this summer, and is reportedly the subject of interest from Serie A champions Napoli, as well as previously being linked to Manchester United. With one year left on his current deal, Torino may feel that now is the time to cash in on their star ‘keeper.
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Signing a new goalkeeper has been high on the list of priorities at Elland Road this summer, with current number one Illan Meslier enduring a mistake-leaden campaign last season. Daniel Farke’s side have also been linked to Newcastle’s Nick Pope, Lyon’s Lucas Perri, and Mainz’s Robin Zentner as they look to prepare for a return to the Premier League.
Who is Vanja Milinkovic-Savic?
Milinkovic-Savic started his career at Serbian side Vojvodina, before earning a move to Leeds’ eternal rivals Manchester United in 2014. However, after spending a season on loan back in Serbia, the goalkeeper failed to earn a UK work permit and was released by the Red Devils without making an appearance.
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The giant stopper then moved to Poland with Lechia Gdansk, where his form secured a move to Serie A side Torino back in 2017, and he has remained ever since. The 28-year-old has made 158 games in all competitions for the Italian side and has been highly consistent, missing just three league games over the last three seasons.
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Milinkovic-Savic also boasts a wealth of international experience, earning 19 caps for Serbia and playing all three group games at the 2022 World Cup. The Torino man regularly plays for his country alongside his brother Sergej, formerly of Lazio and now plying his trade in Saudi Arabia with Al Hilal.
What Would Milinkovic-Savic Bring to Leeds?
Milinkovic-Savic is a giant, imposing goalkeeper who is highly effective at claiming crosses, something that has been a key weakness for Meslier and would make the Serbian an instant upgrade. The 28-year-old is also a fantastic shot-stopper, making the most saves of any goalkeeper in the Italian top flight last season with 135.
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The Torino ‘keeper also topped the charts when it came to saving penalties, saving a highly impressive four spot kicks last season. Milinkovic-Savic’s only shortcoming is perhaps his ability with the ball at his feet, where he likes to keep things simple, but his dependability, enormous frame, and calmness would make him a reassuring sight in the Leeds United goal.
With Leeds likely to come under intense defensive pressure next season, the giant Serbian’s impressive command of his area and shot-stopping capabilities could make a huge difference as Daniel Farke’s side look to establish themselves back in the Premier League.
