Karsten Rickart, the agent of Udinese starlet Lazar Samardzic, reflected on the failed move to Inter in the summer and the interest from Juventus.
The 21-year-old Serbian midfielder seemed to be just a step away from joining the Nerazzurri in the summer after they agreed a deal with Udinese worth around €15m plus youngster Giovanni Fabbian. He underwent his medicals in the Lombardy capital, but suddenly everything collapsed.
It was reported that Samardzic’s entourage requested last minute changes to their contract with Inter, likely wanting a raise, and Inter did not appreciate the move. As such, the club gave up and focused their efforts elsewhere.
Speaking to SportItalia, Rickart first discussed Samardzic’s failed move to Inter in the summer transfer window.
“Lazar has always been a professional through and through. Obviously, he was disappointed by what happened with Inter, who wouldn’t be?
“But as you correctly said, since then what happened has no longer had any effect on him. He is only 21 years old, so this was certainly not his last chance.
“Now all this is behind him, he immediately refocused on Udinese and as you can see, he has proven his worth once again. Another year starting in Friuli will certainly be useful for his career.”
He was asked about his client’s links with Juventus and their truth behind their reported interest.
“We have done well so far not to comment on the rumours. Juve are obviously a great club, with a great history, but so are other clubs. His contract is still in force until 2026. The important thing is to understand where he can grow best and at which steps are most beneficial for his career.
“This is exactly the case at Udinese now. Laki is happy there, he is ready for the next step, but we are in no hurry. He is still one of the most interesting events in the league, if in the future there is something that can bring benefits to all parties, we will definitely talk about it.”
Finally, Rickart discussed Samardzic’s hopes of playing in next summer’s European Championship with Serbia.
“First of all, the European Championship will represent a milestone for him and his family, especially because it is hosted by Germany, where he was born and raised. A great tournament it has always been his dream, that’s why he chose to play for Serbia.
“Even though he hasn’t earned that many minutes with the national team yet, he is already adapting to the team, the schemes and the playing style, so hopefully he will get more next summer. I’m sure it will help his development as a player and as a man anyway.
“He’s already spending a lot of time with experienced players who have won titles, he’s played some tournaments of that kind. Surely these teammates will help him grow too. Now it’s his turn to continue to show off.”