CRESPO EDGES CLOSER TO LAZIO

It is reported that the deal, calculated to be worth around £40 million, will see Matias Almeyda and Marcelo Salas move in the opposite direction plus a cash sum.

There are also suggestions that Sergio Conceicao could be targeted by Parma, who aim to cash in on the good-will generated by negotiations over the Argentinian marksman.

Crespo's agent Gustavo Mascardi said: "There is nothing yet signed, but for Hernan there will probably be a change of air next season."

Crespo only signed a new deal in March - but has admitted to the press in his native Argentina that he "would almost certainly not be playing in Parma next year," although he stated that he is likely stay in Italy.

The prolific marksman continued: "I cannot say if I will be at Parma or at Lazio next year - when the season is over I will sit down and consider the offers with the leaders of the club."

La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests that Salas has reached a personal agreement with Parma, that will in turn pave the way for the completion of the deal, which came about after it became clear that Christian Vieri would not be returning to the Biancoceleste.