Lazio are close to making Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Marcos Antonio their first signing of the summer for €10 million, according to reports in Italy.
With Europa League for the 2022-23 season confirmed following their last-gasp 2-2 draw at Juventus on Monday, Lazio can turn their attentions to preparing for the next campaign.
And Sky Sport report they are on the brink of wrapping up a deal for Antonio, with confirmation possible this week.
The report states the deal will be €8m up front with a further €2m in add-ons and Antonio would arrive as a replacement for compatriot Lucas Leiva, who is set to leave the Stadio Olimpico
Born in Brazil, Antonio started his career in Portugal with Estoril Praia and moved to Shakhtar in 2019 for €3.5m less than a year after arriving in Europe.
Antonio is a mezzala and has become likened by some in Brazil to former Chelsea midfielder Ramires.
The Brazil under-20 international has scored eight goals in his two seasons with the Ukrainian side, where he won back-to-back leagues titles and a Ukrainian Cup.
Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, he moved to Brazilian side Flamengo on loan.
Lazio are closing on deal for Marcos Antonio. Brazilian midfielder will join Lazio from Shakhtar Donetsk for €8m plus €2m add-ons, it’s almost done as reported by @DiMarzio @SkySport. 🇧🇷 #transfers
Marcos Antonio will replace Lucas Leiva who’s set to leave Lazio as free agent. pic.twitter.com/AbGZaEutar
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 18, 2022
Lazio needs to rejuvenate the squad. Welcome to Lazio Marcos Antonio.