Claudio Lopez wants Veron return

Veron's return to Lazio for a brief visit served to rekindle rumours that the Roman club would launch a major bid for the midfielder they sold to Manchester United for £28 million in the summer.

Argentine international Claudio 'Piojo' Lopez, who Lazio signed from Valencia in the summer of 2000, would welcome the return of Veron - a personal friend and compatriot.

"Sebastian, as well as being a friend, is also a champion," insisted Piojo. "I would certainly love to play alongside him again.

"Lazio are suffering a bad spell at the moment but we will fight until the very end to secure a place in the Champions League."

Meanwhile, Veron's agent has met with Biancoceleste president Sergio Cragnotti and his son Massimo, but only to discuss possible moves for Argentine international defender Juan Pablo Sorin and youngster Nicolas Burdisso.

Cruzeiro star Sorin has continually been linked with a move to Serie A, and Lazio's long standing history of attracting the top South Americans to the club will stand them in good stead with one of the stars of the Brazilian league.

Burdisso is a more recent link, with the 20-year-old well established in the Boca Juniors side, and attracting glowing scouting reports.