Lazio have identified Toma Basic as the ideal piece to add to their midfield. Napoli and Atalanta also eyed him earlier in the window, but the Biancocelesti are firmly in the lead. However, they need to trim the squad and monetize some departures before signing him, Radiosei reports.
According to Calciomercato.com, the agent of the 24-year-old has given his word to Lazio. He has told Bordeaux that he wants to leave. Moreover, he only has one year left on his deal and turned down an extension multiple times. His representative Adrian Aliaj is tight with director Igli Tare. The player and his entourage are willing to wait until the final days of the window to finalize the transfer.
Lazio have come to terms with them, but not with Bordeaux. The French club has placed a €7M price tag on Basic. The Italian side wants a discount given his contractual situation. Bordeaux are facing major financial difficulties but have put up a decent resistance thus far.
The Croatian international has featured in 80 matches with Les Girondins in the last 3 years, registering 9 goals and 4 assists. He would be able to play in multiple positions in the midfield. Lazio are trying to part ways with Gonzalo Escalante to make room for him and he is on Olympique Marseille’s radar. The Biancocelesti have arranged multiple deals, but they need to complete the sale of Joaquin Correa to seal them. The slippery forward is on Inter’s shortlist, but there have not been direct talks yet.