Lazio’s defensive problems have been quite evident this season as Maurizio Sarri prepares to reinforce his team ahead of the 2022/23 campaign. The Biancocelesti management are already working on a contract deal to bring in Milan captain Alessio Romagnoli, but just one defender is not expected to solve any of their problems at the back.
Keeping that in mind, Lazio sporting director Igli Tare has been alerted of the presence and availability of Dinamo Zagreb and Croatia U21 international Josip Sutalo, according to La Lazio Siamo Noi. The class of 2000 is currently in his breakthrough year at the Croatian giants, establishing himself as a starter in a variety of roles in the back-three that Dinamo usually play with.
LSN reports Igli Tare is interested in Dinamo Zagreb's 22y old centre back Josip #Sutalo. #Lazio pic.twitter.com/zMndsfMyID
— LazioLand (@Lazio_Land) March 28, 2022
The tactically versatile center-back can operate in both three and four-man defences – playing a key role in the Croat club conceding the lowest number of goals in the league season so far, propelling themselves to the first position with only a few matchdays to go.
Dinamo Zagreb’s ?? Josip Šutalo (22) has been sensational this season.
Such a complete centre-back. He has the pace, phenomenal on the ball, composed, great anticipation & positioning, rarely makes mistakes and is deadly on set pieces as well.
The future. https://t.co/ds1RlpPd13
— Karlo (@CroatianScout2) March 26, 2022
As the oldest squad in the league with an average age of 27.6, the Biancocelesti are keen on bolstering the youth in their ranks and Sutalo’s name emerges as a top contender.
He has transfermarkt value of €5m but it is understood that Dinamo value him a bit higher, around the €7m mark, and it is estimated that his asking price might increase to €10-15m as the end of the season approaches.
Reportedly, even Arsenal and Atalanta are keeping close tabs in the development of the youngster but their stance is still unknown.