Sergej Milinkovic-Savic has reiterated his commitment to Lazio, insisting that "I'm staying", in what marks a blow to Chelsea’s hopes of signing the highly-rated midfielder.

After a stellar 2017/18 season with the Serie A side, Milinkovic-Savic has caught the attention of a number of clubs on the continent, including Chelsea and Manchester United.

As first reported by the The Independent, there is now a belief by those close to the player that he would favour a switch to Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea closely monitoring the Serbian’s situation.

But the midfielder’s latest comments, made in pre-season, have poured cold water on recent speculation of a Chelsea transfer.

When asked about his future by fans outside the facility, reports Goal, Milinkovic-Savic responded: “Of course I’m staying, do you not see that I’m here?”

Lazio are keen to keep hold of the talismanic midfielder, who could command a huge transfer fee in the market.

Milinkovic-Savic has been valued at around £89m, with manager Simone Inzaghi recently confirming his belief that the player is worth such a figure.

“There are many voices around Milinkovic-Savic, he can change the games alone,” Inzaghi said recently.

“I spoke with Sergej, he wanted to arrive two days earlier in Auronzo, but I gave him two more days of holiday. I feel calm.

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“Anything could happen. Our desire is to do well as in the last years, we will fight with everyone.”

Prior to Russia 2018, United had seemed set to conclude a deal for the 23-year-old only for both the complications of his Lazio contract and price to put them off.