Stefan de Vrij and Lazio have now both announced they’ll be parting ways when the defender’s contract ends in June.
For months De Vrij had reportedly been on the verge of signing a renewal, which would have included a buying clause of around €25m, but the longer things went on the more likely an exit has looked.
Just over a week ago we covered claims from Italy that De Vrij’s agents were asking for a ‘monstrous’ commission on the new deal, with Lazio simply unwilling to grant them that and a relatively low release clause.
This all presented the chance for Liverpool to move in.
As we explained: ‘Liverpool have been linked since last Autumn, and in November we covered claims from Italy which detailed the Anfield interest but stated De Vrij had agreed to extend with Lazio, and would have a €25m release clause.
Liverpool were said to have made some sort of proposition in November, and whilst De Vrij had been considering his options, the renewal agreement was said to be on.
In December it was reported Liverpool had made an offer, that would have been to the player. With the Dutchman’s contract set to expire in June, he’d be available for free.’
Jurgen Klopp being interested would be no surprise, even after the Virgil van Dijk purchase. Now Liverpool will be up against other clubs also interested in the free signing.
Inter Milan are thought to be the favourites but that would be a controversial move and if De Vrij doesn’t want to upset Lazio fans too much, an option outside of Italy would be the better option.
Whilst technically a free signing, De Vrij and his representatives are likely to take full advantage of his status and look for a very lucrative package.
