Sevilla have made an initial enquiry for Lazio striker Petar Ratkov as the Serbia international faces an uncertain future in Rome. The Liga club has asked for information regarding the forward, though the approach has not progressed beyond preliminary stages, according to reports from Italy.
Whether the Spanish route materialises remains to be seen, with developments expected in the coming hours as the transfer window enters its final week. The enquiry follows Ratkov’s decision to reject a move to England earlier in the window. Championship side Southampton tabled a proposal exceeding €10m plus bonuses, but the striker declined the opportunity to join the second-tier club.
Ratkov’s potential exit forms part of a broader restructuring of Gennaro Gattuso’s attacking department. The Lazio head coach specifically requested a new centre-forward during the window, prompting the club to sanction several movements among their striking options.
Pinamonti seals Sassuolo switch
Lazio have reached full agreement with Sassuolo over a paid loan deal for Andrea Pinamonti. The arrangement is worth €3m and includes an option to buy, representing a significant shake-up of the Biancocelesti’s forward line.
The arrival of Pinamonti, combined with reports that Gattuso has settled on Boulaye Dia as his other senior forward option, leaves Ratkov surplus to requirements at the Stadio Olimpico. The Serbian joined Lazio last summer but has struggled to establish himself as a first-choice striker under the former Napoli and Valencia coach.
Artistico faces Serie B interest
Gabriele Artistico also faces a possible departure despite completing the full pre-season programme with Lazio’s first team. The forward has attracted interest from Serie B clubs Cesena and Padova, with both sides monitoring his situation ahead of the deadline.
However, any prospect of a move to Frosinone appears to have faded. The Serie A side previously showed interest in Artistico but have since cooled their pursuit, leaving the player to consider options in Italy’s second tier should he seek regular first-team football.
Several clubs have attempted to secure Artistico’s services during the current window, though none have successfully persuaded him to leave the capital club as yet.