[dukeofdavinci]

Lionel’s leaving Lazio Tuesday 22 January, 2008

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Reports in the peninsula suggest that Lazio’s Argentine defender Lionel Scaloni is ready to quit the Eternal City for a return to La Liga with Mallorca.

Despite making 12 appearances so far this term – seven as a starter – Scaloni has reportedly failed to adapt to life in Italy after spending the majority of his career in Spain.

It has been a tumultuous time at Lazio as last season’s surprise heroes have stuttered in the bottom half of the table, and it is possible that the reported tensions in the dressing room have affected Scaloni.

The Biancocelesti snapped up the international stopper on a free transfer during the summer when his contract at Racing Santander expired.

Scaloni had spent nine years at Deportivo La Coruna and came highly recommended by Lazio’s scouts, but now he seems to be packing his bags.

It is believed that Mallorca are ready to pay around £650,000 to complete a permanent deal and the Aquile are unlikely to block the transfer.

Scaloni is expected to agree personal terms with the Barralets before the end of the week and could bid farewell to Delio Rossi’s squad within the next 48 hours.

channel4.com - Football Italia