Sunday 3 January, 2010
Santon-Kolarov exchange
Lazio and Inter are ready to exchange full-backs, as Davide Santon accepts a loan switch to make way for Aleksandar Kolarov.
The Italian turned 19 this week and was tipped to make his mark in 2010, but has spent most of this season on the bench or in the stands.
Santon does not want to miss out on the 2010 World Cup and so is ready to accept a loan spell at the Stadio Olimpico.
There he would receive regular playing time and the opportunity to show his tactical versatility.
Kolarov has already done so at Lazio and caught the eye of Jose Mourinho.
The Serb wide man with the fierce left foot can play as a left-back, wide midfield or even as the third prong in a trident attack.
Lazio were reticent to sell Kolarov and his contract does not expire until 2012, but they would be willing to part with him if Inter offer co-ownership of Santon.
It is unlikely the Nerazzurri will accept giving away half of such a promising young player, so there are alternatives.
Inter could throw in youngsters Rene Khrin and Mattia Destro on loan to sweeten the deal.
Kolarov is also welcomed by Goran Pandev, his good friend who won a legal battle to be released from his Lazio contract.
Pandev is expected to undergo his Inter medical tomorrow and make his debut for the club against Chievo on Wednesday.
Football Italia
