The battle for Brazilian Santos defender Lucas Verissimo is heating up, with L’Equipe reporting via CalcioMercato that Lyon and Marseille have joined Lazio, Roma and Torino in the race for the 22-year-old. Torino were said to be favourites to secure his signature just a few days ago but with competition heating up, he could sign for any one of the mentioned clubs.
José Carlos Peres, President of Santos FC, spoke about the current situation: “We have received several proposals for the player but we would like at least €10 million,” adding that “how much has been offered for now does not satisfy us.”
The defender would add another viable younger option for Lazio’s back-four, yet may not be the experienced defender Lazio fans wish to see after the departure of Stefan De Vrij. Francesco Acerbi looks like he may be on his way to the Stadio Olimpico and Verissimo could be the perfect supplementary transfer.
A stumbling block could prove to be the player’s non-EU status. With Club Brugge striker Wesley Moraes linked heavily to Lazio, the biancoceleste may have to sell Felipe Caicedo before they can proceed with a deal for a second South American signing this summer.
