Lazio is making moves to strengthen their midfield by targeting Arthur and Michael Folorunsho. These needs have become urgent after a challenging start to the season. The team requires a player who can help push the ball forward effectively. With the option for Alcazar falling through, as he is set to join Flamengo, Lazio has turned their attention to Arthur.
The club is also considering how to adapt their tactical setup, needing versatility in the squad as they alternate between formations like the 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-3. Folorunsho fits this bill perfectly, having thrived under coach Marco Baroni last season at Verona, and having also worked with him at Reggina.
Arthur, a 28-year-old Brazilian with experience at Barcelona, has returned to Juventus after a loan spell at Fiorentina. Lazio is interested in bringing him in on loan, but the main concern lies with his salary, which is approximately six million euros. This figure exceeds Lazio’s current budget, meaning they would need Juventus to share some of the financial burden. Discussions are ongoing to finalize any potential deal, although Lazio will need to create space on their roster by offloading a player first.
In parallel, Lazio is looking closely at Folorunsho. The 26-year-old midfielder has a history with Lazio’s youth teams and is now available after falling out of favor at Napoli. Despite signing a contract extension until 2029, he hasn’t been included in Antonio Conte’s plans since the pre-season. Napoli values him at around 12 million euros, but Lazio is interested in a loan deal with an option to buy, rather than the obligation that Napoli prefers. Negotiations could accelerate in the coming days, as Folorunsho is eager to join Lazio, seeing it as a chance to develop further under Baroni’s guidance.
With six incoming transfers already completed, Lazio must navigate their finances carefully, managing any additional costs while considering potential departures.