Lazio Agree Deal with Benfica
Lazio have accelerated their pursuit of Franjo Ivanović, reaching an agreement with Benfica for the loan of the Croatian striker. The deal is a loan with an option to buy, which would become an obligation if certain conditions are met. This formula is favoured by Lazio's president, Claudio Lotito, this summer.
Ivanović's Approval and Decision to Come
Ivanović had already given his approval for the deal, but now the player must choose between joining Lazio or Lens. The French club has also built the basis of an agreement with Benfica, and interest from Real Betis appears to have cooled. Lazio believe they have secured the decisive advantage, having won the player's preference.
Background and Context
Ivanović joined Benfica last summer for around €23m, but struggled for minutes in Lisbon and is now considered expendable. Lazio believe in his profile and potential to relaunch. His arrival would carry knock-on effects, as Petar Ratkov, the subject of a bid worth more than €15m from Dinamo Moscow, is not deemed ready to shoulder the attack alone. Lazio are working with a tight budget of around €9m for two signings, and a loan for Ivanović would allow them to focus their remaining funds on a new centre-back.
Budget Constraints and Competition
Lazio's tight budget is a significant factor in their pursuit of Ivanović. The club are working with a limited budget of around €9m for two signings, and a loan for Ivanović would enable them to allocate their remaining funds to a new centre-back. Dinamo Moscow's bid for Petar Ratkov, worth more than €15m, highlights the competition for Lazio's target players.
Conclusion
The deal is not yet over the line, and Lazio must now wait for Ivanović's decision. The Biancocelesti believe they have secured the decisive advantage, but the player's choice will ultimately determine the outcome.