Lazio close to reaching agreement for Russian prospect Arsen Zakharyan

Lazio are in advanced talks for Dynamo Moscow midfielder Arsen Zakharyan and are optimistic about striking an agreement, reports Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.

The Biancocelesti have been actively scouring the market for a new midfielder since losing Sergej Milinkovic-Savic to Al-Hilal this summer.

Napoli’s Piotr Zielinski has been identified as the priority target, but Lazio president Claudio Lotito recently confirmed their €20 million bid was turned down by the Serie A champions.

They have started to focus on other alternatives and set their sights on Zakharyan.

The Russian midfielder rose to prominence after Chelsea failed in their attempts to sign him over the last two transfer windows.

The 20-year-old is a highly-coveted prospect after enjoying back-to-back stellar seasons in the Russian Premier League.

Zakharyan’s contract expires next summer, and he wants to embark on a new challenge.

Dynamo have requested around €15 million, while the Biancocelesti are looking to close the deal for around €11 million plus €4m in bonuses.

Zakharyan would be a great addition to Maurizio Sarri’s squad.

Often compared with Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne, Zakharyan’s eye for creativity and scoring goals makes him an enthralling prospect.

Sarri is also looking to add Torino midfielder Samuele Ricci to his squad next season, with talks ongoing for his signing.

Having sealed the transfer of Argentine striker Valentin Castellanos, Lazio are now in advanced negotiations to sign Chelsea forward Callum Hudson-Odoi.

He previously worked with Sarri at Stamford Bridge and has given the green light for his move to the Stadio Olimpico.