An unexpected turn has just rocked the transfer market: a young strike prodigy has reportedly turned down a hefty Premier League move, prompting a scramble among his homeland’s giants. After rejecting an offer from England, Italy’s most storied clubs have now made their move setting the stage for one of summer’s biggest potential transfers.
The Refusal That Changed the Game
Leeds United reportedly submitted an offer of €23 million plus €2 million in bonuses for a highly prized centre-forward but the player declined the move outright, signaling a clear preference to remain in Serie A. Crucially, he hinted at staying in Italy by even training in a Roma shirt, fueling speculation that a domestic move was not only preferred but expected. This stalled transfer has opened the door for AC Milan and Juventus, both now firmly in the hunt for the 25‑year‑old Montenegrin forward.
A €25 Million Valuation Draws Attention
Lecce’s Sporting Director, *Pantaleo Corvino, has firmly placed a €25 million price tag on their star striker. Having just sold Patrick Dorgu for €30 million, Lecce are standing firm with speculation suggesting that bids will need to meet or exceed that mark to proceed. According to sources, AC Milan submitted a proposal worth €20m plus €5m in bonuses, which Lecce were not inclined to entertain fully.
Analysts hint that Lecce may value the player closer to €30 million, especially after his breakthrough season in Serie A. Any suitor must not only match the valuation but also meet the player’s wish to stay in Italy.
Player Profile: Montenegro’s Rising Star
Nikola Krstović joined Lecce in August 2023 from DAC Dunajská Streda for a modest €4 million fee. He made an impact immediately, scoring in his first three Serie A games and quickly becoming a mainstay in the starting XI.
During the 2024–25 season, Krstović delivered 12 league goals and six assists in around 3,100 minutes, a tally that not only helped keep Lecce in the top flight but also firmly spotlighted him among Italy’s most intriguing young forwards.
Lecce’s director praised him as a “player for a big team,” citing his robust personality, ability to influence games, and statistical output as proof of his readiness for a larger stage.
Why Krstović Wants to Stay in Italy
Sources indicate that the striker is eager to continue progressing in Serie A rather than heading to a newly promoted Premier League team. His subtle Instagram post showing a Roma jersey further suggested he is waiting for a move within Italy, ideally to a club with European ambitions.
This preference for Serie A is a significant factor differentiating him from many transfer targets meaning any approach from England must navigate not only financial terms but also Krstović’s personal desires.
Interest from Italy’s Elite
AC Milan have been monitoring Krstović since at least January. Reports indicate they offered €20 million plus €5 million in add-ons, though Lecce declined to finalize the deal at that stage and particularly given their recent Dorgu sale and high internal valuation of the striker.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan also reportedly added him to their shortlist. With Marko Arnautović and Joaquín Correa both out of contract, Inter are targeting a young striker to rejuvenate their attack; Krstović fits their youth-friendly strategic direction.
Juventus are also believed to be monitoring developments and are keen to bolster their frontline after inconsistent goal returns last season and following departures of veteran forwards.
Corvino’s Vision As Strategic Sale
Corvino, Lecce’s well-known sporting architect, has repeatedly stated that Krstović is destined for a major club, and that any buyer must meet Lecce’s valuation. While he hinted at possible flexibility, his standard remains firm especially given the financial and sporting transitions Lecce endured after the high-profile Dorgu exit earlier in the year.
Potential Scenario: Who Has the Edge?
AC Milan can offer European competition, a strong fanbase, and ambition but must meet Lecce’s valuation and negotiate with Krstović’s Serie A preference.
Inter Milan fits with the player’s age profile and need for a younger attacking core. Their vacancy in the striker position and strategic rebuilding may make them attractive.
Juventus, while rebuilding, have midfielder depth and could offer Krstović a central role in attack but if they can finance the deal. For Leeds United, the rejection seems decisive as Krstović’s desire to remain in Italy and ambition to play for top-tier Serie A clubs outweighs interest from the Premier League.
What Happens Next
Watching Krstović’s preference could shape negotiations significantly. While Milan and Inter weigh up whether to raise their offers to €30 million, Roma remains an outside possibility even though they are reportedly prioritizing other targets first. Negotiations are entering a critical phase: either *Lecce gets a Serie A-level bid of €25–30 million*, the player signs until 2029, or the market slows until someone meets the ceiling price.
Conclusion
This saga highlights how player preference can influence modern transfers. After turning down Leeds’ approach, Nikola Krstović has signaled that he wants to remain in Italy and is prompting interest from AC Milan, Inter, and potentially Juventus. Lecce’s valuation remains firm, but with his rise in form, expectations now match a near-€30 million investment. As both clubs and fans await developments, the question remains: who will meet Lecce’s asking price, respect Krstović’s wishes and secure one of Serie A’s brightest forward talents?
