Report: Liverpool in talks with Lazio midfielder Balde Diao
Liverpool are in talks with Lazio over a player-plus-cash deal for striker Keita Balde Diao, according to reports in Italy.
The Rome-based publication Il Tempo says Lazio are keen on taking Fabio Borini in exchange for Balde Diao, with the Reds also having to pay around 2million euros.
Balde Diao, 20, came through the ranks at Barcelona's famous La Masia youth academy, but moved to Lazio in the summer of 2011 for £250,000.
The Spanish forward spent much of last season on the bench and made just six starts, scoring once as Lazio secured a Champions League place with a third place finish in Serie A.
His agent Ulisse Savini has made it clear that Balde Diao is not happy with his lack of game time in Rome and would be open to a move away, although no contact with Liverpool has been made.
"For years there have been several offers coming in, but considering the situation I have to say this summer they are particularly interesting," Savini told Radio Sei.
"I personally spoke to Lazio and they said his sale is not predicted. It's only natural that he isn't satisfied with the situation, so we are evaluating other options.
"Liverpool have a manager who relishes attacking players like Keita. It is a destination we would like, but we have to verify a series of situations. So far I have not had any direct contact with Liverpool."
Inter Milan are also tracking the Girona-born prospect, who was linked with a £12.5m move to Anfield back in March.
Savini added: "Inter? I have an excellent rapport with them and know they are seeking wide attackers. The Nerazzurri really like Keita, but I think right now they are aiming for other objectives.
"In life you never know, as you might not get the first target and go for a second. I wouldn't rule them out."
Borini is surplus to requirements at Anfield this summer and Brendan Rodgers will allow the former Sunderland loanee to leave, but whether he would be willing to sanction a move for Balde Diao remains to be seen.
The Reds already have youngsters Divock Origi, 20, back at the club after his loan spell at Lille and Danny Ings, 22, on the books and Rodgers is on the lookout for an experienced striker.
