Lazio are interested in Barcelona midfielder Riqui Puig.

Sport says Valencia have also asked about the Barça midfielder but they now have competition from Serie A after Lazio boss Maurizio Sarri backed a move.

Lazio are looking for a technical attacking midfielder and have also been linked with Celta Vigo midfielder Denis Suarez.

A deal for the former Barça man is complicated, though, and a move for Puig would be much easier to negotiate at this stage.

Lazio are prepared to pay his full salary as part of a loan, while Valencia currently have their hands tied as they are over their LaLiga salary limit and cannot register new players.