As the debate over Ruben Amorim rages on, the Manchester United scouting network has its eyes set on some of the brightest prospects in European football, with Serbia offering several opportunities.
Under the watchful eye of Jim Ratcliffe and his Ineos hierarchy, the Reds have undergone an internal transformation with a clear focus on engineering a suitable structure to achieve ‘Project 150’.
Although there have been enhanced efforts in manufacturing dossiers in South America, the SuperLiga is viewed as a potential gem for identifying talent, with perennial rivals Crvena Zvezda (Red Star Belgrade) and FK Partizan boasting undeniable quality.
While the domestic game has been dominated by Red Star since 2017, with Vladan Milojevic’s side winning eight consecutive titles, their Belgrade neighbours have developed a talented team with significantly less financial muscle.
Like many, United have monitored the growth of several of the league’s young stars, and remain keen on Ognjen Ugresic and teammate Jovan Milosevic, both of whom are regarded as two of Serbian football’s most promising names.
Serbian duo appear destined to grace the Champions League
It is no secret that United have long coveted Kikinda-born Ugresic. At 19, the midfielder has sailed through the youth ranks of the Serbian game, earning comparisons to Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham along the way.
Although he has represented his nation successfully up to U19 level, the Partizan talent is also eligible to declare for Hungary through his mother. Something Serbian officials are keen to eradicate at the earliest opportunity.
Speaking with Nemzeti Sport in April, his agent, Ostoja Stjepanovic, confirmed widespread interest in his young player across Europe.
“I can confirm that the winter press reports are based on reality,” he stated. “There is interest in him from many places: not only Manchester United observers are following his development, but also Serie A clubs.”
With 26 senior appearances to his name in Belgrade, the energetic technician is keen to retain ample playing time to ensure optimum opportunities for development, and Stjepanovic appears committed to keeping his cards close to his chest.
Our sources, who shall continue to remain anonymous to maintain ties, have confirmed that United analysts are encouraged by his continued growth. His skill set is considered complementary to an attack-minded philosophy, and his age/ceiling meet the Ineos criteria for a new-look recruitment framework.
Ultimately, the previously reported interest is accurate, and the club regards him as one of several potential options to enhance a technically minded midfield.
Another name that continues to impress is Ugresic’s attacking teammate, Milosevic. Although the Cacak native is contracted with Bundesliga outfit VfB Stuttgart, the 20-year-old is enjoying a stellar loan period with Parni Valjak.
Having made his senior debut with Vojvodina in July 2022, the promising striker was quickly snapped up by Die Roten before a brief loan spell with Swiss club St.Gallen.
Since arriving at Partizan in January 2025, he has become a firm favourite with the home support, memorably notching a first-half hat-trick against Oleksandriya in the UEFA Conference League qualifiers in July.
His nine goals and one assist in 14 appearances, including an 80th-minute consolation in a 2-1 derby defeat against Red Star at the weekend, have led to widespread hope for a permanent deal at Partizan Stadium.
Interestingly, at 6 ft 3, Milosevic retains many similar traits to Benjamin Sesko, and we’re told he has impressed Manchester staff with an advanced attacking mindset and finishing ability with both feet.
Like Ugresic, the striker has thrived internationally at underage level, shooting to continental recognition with five goals at the 2022 European U17 Championships, earning the Golden Boot en route to a semi-final appearance.
While a deal for either youngster is far from a formality, there is an understanding that the latter would command a higher fee, given the stature of his parent club.
Still, United possesses significant interest in both and wishes to be notified of any potential offers from European rivals.
How would you feel about the prospect of dipping into the Serbian market for either of these players?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments or across our social channels.
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