Report: Lazio reach agreement for €13m Salzburg striker Ratkov | OneFootball

Lazio have reached an agreement to sign Petar Ratkov from Red Bull Salzburg in a deal worth €13 million, with only final details left to be completed.

According to Alfredo Pedullà, the Biancocelesti finalised terms late last night for the highly rated Serbian striker, born in 2003, as they move quickly to reinforce Maurizio Sarri’s attacking options during the January window.

MUNICH, GERMANY – JUNE 20: Petar Ratkov of Serbia looks on as he inspects the pitch prior to the UEFA EURO 2024 group stage match between Slovenia and Serbia at Munich Football Arena on June 20, 2024 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

Ratkov, currently on the books at Red Bull Salzburg, has been identified as a long-term investment by the Lazio hierarchy, combining physical presence with strong development potential.

Lazio near Ratkov deal as club plan to get January business done

The operation is understood to be a permanent transfer, reflecting the club’s willingness to commit significant resources to secure the forward’s signature, especially now that their transfer embargo is over.

The move comes as Lazio reshape their attacking department following the departure of Taty Castellanos and uncertainty in the final third, with Sarri keen to add depth and alternative profiles up front.

Official: West Ham United announce the signing of Taty Castellanos on a permanent deal from Lazio (picture via www.whufc.com)

Ratkov is expected to slot into the squad immediately, while also being viewed as a player capable of growing into a leading role over time.

Once the remaining formalities are resolved, Lazio are set to complete one of their most notable signings of the winter market.