Lazio defender Massimo Oddo is set for a move to Milan in January, according to the latest reports in Italy.
The Italian international was heavily paired with the San Siro outfit during the summer, but no transfer fee was agreed after Biancocelesti President Claudio Lotito refused to lower his £8m asking price.
The operation may now be finalised in January though as the Rossoneri are in desperate need of a defender after the injuries suffered by Alessandro Nesta and Serginho.
Vice-President Adriano Galliani has confirmed that the club is considering the idea of signing a new stopper during the winter window.
“The first thing we need is all our injured players to come back to fitness. New arrivals aren’t a priority, but maybe we will do something in defence,” said the official.
Furthermore, La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests Oddo, who is currently contracted until 2008, has broken off renewal negotiations with Lazio and would favour a move to Milan.
The defender had recently stated that he wanted to end his career at the Olimpico, but talks have stalled given the significant difference between the playerÂ’s demands and the clubÂ’s offer.
The Biancocelesti may therefore let him leave in the New Year rather than losing him for a much smaller fee at the end of the season.
It is believed that the co-ownership of young defender Lino Marzoratti, presently on loan at Empoli, would be included in the package for Oddo.
The Rossoneri may also allow Lazio to buy winger Pasquale Foggia, currently on loan in Rome, outright for just £2m.