Lazio transfer plans stalled as Petar Ratkov turns down Southampton | OneFootball

Lazio’s push for a new centre-forward has stalled after Petar Ratkov rejected Southampton, Alfredo Pedulla reports.

The report adds the Serbian had already turned down a 15 million offer from Dynamo Moscow. It also says Lazio are considering Lorenzo Lucca or Andrea Pinamonti as possible replacements.

Working to a net-zero window, Lazio must raise fees through sales to fund arrivals. Last season their attack produced only 41 goals in 38 Serie A matches.

Despite his pre-season goals, Gennaro Gattuso views Ratkov as ill-suited to his plans and prefers a more mobile striker to lead the line.

The failure to find a buyer is a blow for the club. Ratkov, 22, arrived in January as Taty Castellanos replacement and is yet to score in a competitive fixture.

Separately, Sky Sport Italia reports the capital club have opened dialogue with Mauro Icardi and his entourage. The 33-year-old Argentine has been a free agent since leaving Galatasaray at the end of last season.

Source: The Laziali

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”