Ljajic set for showdown talks

Fiorentina are hopeful of keeping midfielder Adem Ljajic after rejecting a bid from AC Milan which they described as ‘too little’.

Ljajic is set to sit down for talks with Fiorentina over a new contract, but could move if they fail to reach an agreement.

AC Milan reportedly offered €7million for his services, only to see the bid rejected, while Manchester City are also believed to be interested.

Fiorentina president Andrea Della Valle said the 21-year-old Serbia international wanted to stay and that AC Milan’s bid needed to be higher.

“It’s too little,” Della Valle told Gazzetta dello Sport.

“The player has expressed his willingness to stay. Let’s just see what he’s going to ask for in terms of wages.

“I spoke to him this morning and, I repeat, he has expressed his willingness to stay here, which is important. It’s best for his future if he stays.”

But City and AC Milan could still make a move for Ljajic, who will be made available should he not sign a new contract.

Ljajic’s contract expires in June 2014 and Fiorentina are eager to avoid losing him for free, like they did when Riccardo Montolivo moved to AC Milan in 2012.

“Let it be clear – if he doesn’t accept our offer, then he goes onto the transfer market,” Della Valle said.

“We’re not going to have the scenario we had with Riccardo Montolivo again, but Ljajic has got to understand that we’ve got to keep an even wage structure.

“Next week, there will be a meeting between my men and the player’s entourage.”