Serie A side Lazio has reportedly informed interested Premier League clubs, including West Ham United and Leeds United, that they will not offer any discount on the price for left-back Nuno Tavares.
Leeds United is currently looking for a new left-back after Junior Firpo`s contract expired and he joined Real Betis. Tavares, formerly of Arsenal, is understood to be a player they are considering among others around Europe.
West Ham United is also monitoring the situation of Tavares, who reportedly had a solid season at Lazio. While Slavia Prague`s El Hadji Malick Diouf is West Ham`s primary target for the left-back position, Tavares remains on their list as no agreement has been reached for Diouf yet.
Lazio recently completed the permanent signing of Tavares from Arsenal this summer for approximately €9 million, following an initial loan spell. Arsenal included a significant sell-on clause in the deal.
Lazio has set an asking price of €20 million to €25 million for the Portuguese left-back should he leave during the current transfer window. The club feels that wealthy Premier League sides should not expect a reduced fee for the 25-year-old.
Tavares has previous experience playing in England, having made 40 appearances there. His attacking capabilities from the left-back position are seen as an attractive asset by interested clubs like West Ham and Leeds.
However, potential suitors must also factor in Tavares` history of injury issues, which caused him to miss games during his recent season with Lazio.
Ultimately, it remains to be seen whether either West Ham or Leeds will increase their efforts to sign Tavares in the coming weeks and whether any potential offer will meet Lazio`s valuation.
