Lazio & Flamengo Negotiating the Transfer of Brazilian Midfielder

Flamengo have reportedly opened talks with Lazio as they look to sign Brazilian midfielder Marcos Antonio.

The Biancocelesti bought the 24-year-old from Shakhtar Donetsk for €7.5 million in the summer of 2022. However, he struggled for playing time during his maiden campaign in the Italian capital, so the club decided to send him on loan to Greek top-flight side PAOK Salonika for the 2023/24 season. Antonio has now returned to the base but appears destined for yet another move.

According to Italian football journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Flamengo and Lazio are currently embroiled in negotiations for the diminutive midfielder, but have yet to reach a final agreement. While the Italian capital side is pushing for a permanent transfer, The Brazilian giants would prefer a loan deal.

The transfer market guru believes the two clubs could eventually reach a compromise on the formula. This could be an initial loan move with an option or obligation to buy tied to certain conditions. The transfer fee could be worth between €4M and €5M.

The source adds that Antonio himself is in favor of the move, and has already reached an agreement in principle with Flamengo. The midfielder’s contract with Lazio is valid until June 2027.