New suitors bid for Tottenham strike target as asking price rises to €20m

Vedat Muriqi TEAMtalk

Fiorentina have gatecrashed Lazio’s negotiations for Tottenham target Vedat Muriqi, according to reports.

Muriqi enjoyed a prolific first season with Fenerbahce, scoring 17 goals in 36 games. His form has seen him linked with a quick move to a bigger league.

Previous reports had suggested that Tottenham were considering a bid for Muriqi. Spurs are lacking competition for Harry Kane, whose future is also in doubt, so had outlined Muriqi as a target.

However, Lazio soon emerged as the favourites for the 26-year-old. The Serie A side are looking to strengthen ahead of their return to Champions League football.

Muriqi was thought to be on the verge of moving to Lazio, but no medical has been scheduled. And now, Fenerbahce have changed their demands for the striker.

According to Sky Sport Italia and Corriere Dello Sport, that’s because Fiorentina are trying to hijack the deal.

The Italian outlets claim Fiorentina have made their own bid for Muriqi. While Fenerbahce previously wanted €18m for him, they now think they can spark a bidding war.

Lazio angry at Fiorentina interference

The Turkish club could now hold out for €20m, but this stance has angered Lazio. The Rome-based side want Fiorentina to step aside, given that they had already reportedly agreed terms with Muriqi.

Such a fee would be much higher than the initial offer that Tottenham supposedly made in May. Reports suggested Daniel Levy had sanctioned a bid of just £4.5m (about €5m).

Muriqi has previously admitted that he would be open to a Premier League switch, and of further interest to Tottenham, that he would like to work under Jose Mourinho.

Promoted side West Brom have also been mentioned as potential suitors.