Che chasing 'Piojo' swoop

The Mestalla chief revealed that talks with Lazio have begun, and suggested that the Argentine hit-man could return to Spain without Valencia handing over a penny.

The Roman outfit are in dire financial straits and still owe Valencia millions of euros from the transfer of Gaizka Mendieta, who they signed in 2001 and also Lopez.

"Signing Piojo is a possibility," Orti explained. "Conversations with Lazio are continuing and we will see where they lead.

"There is a great advantage in the fact that he is has played for us before, the public would love him to return and it would solve a lot of financial issues."

Valencia did not sign any players last summer after scooping the Primera title, but as their quest for trophies has dried up this term the club plans to reinforce their squad.