West Ham’s summer transfer target Nikola Milenkovic is reportedly reluctant to sign a contract extension with Serie A side Fiorentina, according to Italian outlet Calciomercato.
They claimed Fiorentina want the Serbia international to commit his long-term future to the club, whereas the 23-year-old may see his future elsewhere.
Milenkovic was among a host of central defenders linked with a move to London Stadium as David Moyes went on the quest for defensive reinforcements during the summer.
Moyes eventually landed the experienced Craig Dawson on a season-long loan deal from Watford, although the 30-year-old is yet to make his Irons debut.
Milenkovic has a market value of just over £25m according to Transfermarkt, and West Ham reportedly had a bid in the region of £20m rejected during the summer.
He has played every minute this term in the league for Fiorentina, scoring once and supplying one assist whilst conceding 12 goals in their opening six matches.
It remains to be seen whether Milenkovic remains on Moyes’ radar as the January window approaches, and perhaps with it an opportunity to reignite the pursuit.
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Despite the arrival of Dawson to London Stadium, that seems like a short-term solution to what is a long-term issue. Of the Hammers natural central defensive options, only Issa Diop is under 25 years old, with Angelo Ogbonna the elder statesman at 32.
Moyes needs to start planning for the future, and signings of the quality and potential of Milenkovic would be a major nod towards any long-term plan.
