Lothar Matthaus believes Luka Jovic is ready to make his mark in the Premier League after a sensational season with Eintracht Frankfurt.
The Serbia international scored against Matthaus’ beloved Germany on Wednesday and it is becoming an all-too familiar sight for Germans.
With 22 goals from 26 starts in the German league, Jovic’s performances are surely starting to earn him recognition from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Speaking exclusively in his Sun Sport column, the World Cup winner revealed why he thought one of Arsenal, Chelsea or Manchester United should try to sign the 21-year-old in the summer.
He wrote: “I see a real talent, a great talent – not yet a great player, but someone who could develop into one.
“Whenever his team attacks, Jovic looks to make the right runs. That is a huge skill to have.
“On top of that, though, is his mentality, his willingness to fight.
“We have seen that over the years from so many players from the former Yugoslavia.
“Jovic is a good technical player but he has become the spirit of his side at Frankfurt. He shows, every game, how much he wants to win.
“Jovic works for the team. And he leads the other players by his attitude, his determination and desire. That is the sign of a good player, a leader.
“You have to remember, sometimes, that he is only 21. He has plenty more to learn and will grow as a player.
“It seems to me that whatever happens he will not be at Frankfurt next season – and they will miss him.
“I know that Barcelona have been linked with him and normally if a club like that comes in it is hard for a player to say “no”.
“But I also know that Niko Kovac would like him at Bayern Munich and I have no doubt that he could play in the Premier League, even if it is more physical in England.
“I think he would be better staying in Germany or moving to England now. Then he can go to Spain later.
“But Jovic is good enough to play for a big club, no question – he knows how to play football and has it in him to adapt to a new league.
“Jovic did that when he went to Benfica to play in the second team there from Red Star Belgrade and since he moved to Germany.
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“He would be able to do it for a top team in England, a Champions League team. He can make that next step, no question, but he will want to join a side that can win things.
“It will cost a lot. Frankfurt have the first option on him and there is no way he would be allowed to leave for less than £40m.
“But that is a price I would pay if I was a manager. It is the right price for a player of this quality. He is a natural goalscorer, young and able to get even better.”