Lazio have identified Spezia midfielder Matteo Ricci as a possible replacement for the aging Lucas Leiva.
According to a report from Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport (via LazioNews24) earlier today, the Biancocelesti began following the Italian midfielder due to his excellent season with Spezia, where he has been a core part of Vincenzo Italiano’s side.
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The Roman club believe that Ricci may be an adequate replacement for 34-year-old Brazilian midfielder Lucas Leiva, whose contract expires with the club at the end of next season.
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The 26-year-old Ricci, who is a product of Roma’s youth system, has made 28 appearances across all competitions so far this season, for a total of 2164 minutes. In that time, he has provided three assists and has helped the side keep five clean sheets.
The statistics reflect Ricci’s impressive form this season. The Italian midfielder averages 7.56 progressive passes per 90 minutes, has completed 85.4% of his 1501 pass attempts and has made 65 tackles and interceptions this season in Serie A.
