Zvezda sports director reveals efforts to sign Mirotic, confirms interest in Kalinic / News - Basketnews.com

Milan Dozet discussed the rumored transfer of Nikola Mirotic to Partizan, clarifying that Zvezda also pursued the EuroLeague star but failed to reach an agreement. He also revealed their interest in Nikola Kalinic, with the latter potentially returning if his contract with FC Barcelona is terminated.

Credit: EuroLeague Basketball via Rodolfo Molina/GettyImages Credit EuroLeague Basketball via Rodolfo Molina/GettyImages

During a guest appearance on "Miljanov Korner" show, Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade sports director Milan Dozet discussed various topics involving his team and including the highly-debated transfer of Nikola Mirotic.

Nikola Mirotic

Position:PFAge:32Height:208 cmWeight:102 kgBirth place:Podgorica, MontenegroProfileNewsStatistics

It was rumored that Mirotic was set to join Partizan but ultimately refused to play in Serbia due to alleged threats he received.

Dozet stressed that Zvezda were also interested in having Mirotic on their team and had discussions with his agents, but no agreement was reached.

"We were in contact with Mirotic and wanted to see him on our team," Dozet said. "We also had some discussions with his agents, but unfortunately, we couldn't reach an agreement."

Addressing the accusations against Crvena Zvezda, he pointed out, "Even Partizan publicly stated in their first press release that they were sure no threats influenced Mirotic's decision, and time will reveal the truth. Among other things, Nikola came out and said there were no threats from Red Star."

Dozet believes that Mirotic didn't want to alienate any part of his supporters by joining a specific Serbian powerhouse.

"He is someone who receives applause wherever we play against him," Dozet said. "We truly see him as one of our own, but we never intended to prevent him from joining any other club. In my opinion, his decision was influenced by his deep connection with the Serbian people. He has contributed a lot, and he didn't want to risk alienating any of his supporters by choosing one club over another."

Moving on to the current Crvena Zvezda roster, Dozet mentioned significant signings like Milos Teodosic and Shabazz Napier. Although Red Star tried to acquire Napier the previous summer, individual and family reasons prevented the deal from happening.

"Along with Milos Teodosic, the most notable reinforcement is Shabazz Napier, whom we chased the whole previous summer," Dozet revealed."We were in negotiations until the very end. But in the end, due to some of his personal and family reasons, we were unable to bring him to Belgrade."

Another crucial topic for the red-and-white team is the possible return of Nikola Kalinic from FC Barcelona. While Kalinic is currently under contract with the Catalan club, Dozet indicated that they have been in contact with him and are keen on bringing him back if his deal is terminated.

"We received hundreds of messages on the internet speculating about his [Nikola Kalinic's] departure from Barcelona. While we don't directly respond to these rumors, we pay close attention to every subtle indication," Dozet underlined.

"We were in contact with Kalinic both during and after the season. He still has a valid contract with Barcelona. If, for some reason, that contract is terminated, I am sure that Red Star would be his first destination."

Nevertheless, recent Mundo Deportivo reports suggest Kalinic might stay with the Spanish club, as Barca lacks players in both forward positions.

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