Agent: Chelsea and Lazio set for player swap

AGENT Claudio Pasqualin has claimed both Chelsea and Lazio are set to complete a player swap with former Italian international Dino Baggio going to Stamford Bridge while Gabriele Ambrosetti joins the Roman giants.

Pasqualin, who represents both players, revealed that negotiations are close to being completed for the player exchange of both Baggio and Ambrosetti.

Pasqualin said: "Talks are at an advanced stage, and the two clubs are already in agreement."

He hinted that both sides are keen on the player exchange with both sides currently struggling with financial problems.

Pasqualin added: "Chelsea were after a strong midfielder, while Lazio were trying to find an alternative destination for Dino Baggio.

"His current wage demands are too high for the 2002-03 budget (at Lazio)."

After spending the last two seasons on loan at Italian Serie A side Piacenza, Ambrosetti may be returning to the same region where he last played, having joined The Blues from Vicenza in August 1999 for £3.5 million.