The Western Sydney Wanderers are working to bring Nicolas Milanovic back to the club, but their efforts are being challenged by at least two rival A-League teams. The 24-year-old attacking midfielder has returned to Australia after a disappointing season with Scottish Premiership side Aberdeen.
Milanovic's Struggles in Scotland
Milanovic joined Aberdeen on a three-year deal after winning the Johnny Warren Medal for his outstanding performances with the Wanderers during the 2024-25 A-League season. At that time, he had high hopes of earning a spot in the Socceroos squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. However, his time in Scotland did not go as planned, as he failed to score in 23 appearances across all competitions, with 13 of those coming off the bench.
Aberdeen is now looking to part ways with Milanovic, whose World Cup dreams faded after he made just two substitute appearances for the Socceroos in friendlies against New Zealand nine months ago. Milanovic is also eager to leave the Scottish club and revive his career in the A-League.
Wanderers Lead the Chase but Face Competition
Given his history with the Wanderers, who finished last season as wooden spooners and are rebuilding under new coach Ufuk Talay, Milanovic is considered most likely to return to Western Sydney. However, a battle for his signature is looming, as two of the league's strongest clubs have also expressed interest.
Wanderers officials declined to comment when asked about the club's pursuit of Milanovic.
Other Transfer News
In related moves, Melbourne Victory has entered the race to sign former Sydney FC star Joe Lolley. The 33-year-old English winger's departure from the Sky Blues was confirmed on Monday, and he had previously been linked with Macarthur FC and Perth Glory. Lolley stated, "Ideally, I'd like to stay in Australia and play football. I still feel like I can really contribute and, barring a few injuries, I feel like I'm ready to prove myself again and I'm up for whatever challenge comes my way."
Victory is also awaiting a decision from Spanish star and reigning Johnny Warren medallist Juan Mata, who is considering whether to sign a new deal after a strong 2025-26 season with the Melbourne club.
Elsewhere, Perth Glory have re-signed Welsh international Tom Lawrence for two more years. Lawrence said, "I believe in the project at this club, and how forward this club's going."
Meanwhile, Sydney FC announced the departures of off-contract quartet Joel King, Patrick Wood, Ahmet Arslan, and Corey Hollman, as well as Apostolos Stamatelopoulos and Piero Quispe, whose loan spells from Scottish club Motherwell and Mexican outfit Pumas UNAM have ended.
