A midfielder who can conduct the orchestra is what is needed at Inter next season and Sporting Director Piero Ausilio has been moving in this direction for several weeks now. Roberto Mancini has set out the profile of the player he wants and the man that fits the bill perfectly is Lazio captain Lucas Biglia. The Argentine completely closed out his opposite number Gary Medel when the two teams met on May 1 and the Chilean may hold the key to Biglia’s arrival.
 

Over the past few days, Lazio have been meeting with former Chilean national team coach Jorge Sampaoli and despite the two parties still being unable to find a suitable agreement, it’s believed the 56-year-old has earmarked Medel as a priority target should he final be given the role. The 28-year-old had a pivotal role under Sampaoli in the national team so the player nicknamed “The Pitbull” could be the final piece in the jigsaw to bring Biglia to the San Siro.  

Medel has a contract with Inter until 2018 and his current market value is €10 million. Lazio patron Claudio Lotito is trying to tie Biglia down to a new deal in the capital but is prepared to part with the player for €30 million. If the Chilean is included in any deal, Inter would be able to reduce the cash payment to €20 million. Sampaoli’s future as Lazio coach may hinge on bringing Medel with him to the Stadio Olimpico.


Steve Mitchell @barafundler