Stam set to leave Lazio

The Dutch international has had several financial squabbles with the club since arriving in Rome from The Premiership.

However, a contract offer that he considers pathetic is likely to be the final straw for the powerful defender, and could start a huge scramble from interested clubs. The proposed deals involve players obtaining shares in the club rather than a pay rise.

Both Newcastle United and Liverpool have been linked with Stam, who was a key man for Manchester United before some controversial comments in his biography, including the revealing of dressing room secrets, led to a falling out with Sir Alex Ferguson.

A move within Italy to either Milan or Juventus, or a return to Holland, are more likely for the stopper, if statements he made some time ago are to be believed.

Stam tested non-negative for banned steroid Nandrolone soon after arriving in Serie A, but has always proclaimed his innocence of the offence.

Lazio would love to cling onto Stam, who has been one of the top performers under Roberto Mancini, but the financial situation at the club has made wage cuts vital.

The Biancoceleste were on the brink of bankruptcy following the collapse of a major sponsor, but have struggled on and amazingly managed a fine season on the pitch under the tutelage of Mancini, reaching the Uefa Cup semi-finals.