Lazio Seeking Depth, Eye Liverpool Backup and Mainz Striker

Lazio are on the prowl for a new striker to back up Ciro Immobile. They are among the several teams linked to Liverpool super-sub Divock Origi, who has just six months left on his contract. They have also inquired about Mainz youngster Jonathan Burkadt.

According to Il Tempo, the Biancocelesti have been in touch with some intermediaries on the first front. The Reds are open to selling their forward for a small fee in January. Coach Maurizio Sarri approved the signing as Origi can feature in multiple positions and has often been a strong contributor off the bench. He has never had a particularly big role in Liverpool. He has featured just eight times this season, making two starts, also due to physical problems. His wages could be a hurdle in the prospective transfer, though.

Lazio have also gathered intel on Burkardt and could be more inclined to bring in a younger striker, Corriere dello Sport informs. The 21-year-old has scored 7 times and provided 2 assists in 17 appearances in Bundesliga so far this season. Mainz have slapped a €15M price tag on him, and he is under contract until 2024; therefore, the deal is not easy.

Before bringing in a new striker, Lazio need to offload Vedat Muriqi. They need to open a roster spot and comply with some federal financial parameters to operate on the transfer market. They are trying to find a taker in Turkey, but the hefty sum they paid for him is an issue. They acquired for nearly €20M from Fenerbahçe in 2020. Hull City are also after him.