Lazio president Claudio Lotito has said he was interested in signing Manchester United midfielder Fred but the move was blocked by manager Maurizio Sarri.
It was reported earlier today that Lazio are one of the clubs keen on landing Fred.
Lotito was ready to enter talks with United over a possible transfer for the Brazil international.
However, he revealed Fred will not be joining his team as former Chelsea manager Sarri does not want to sign him.
He told Il Messaggero (via Manchester Evening News): “I was prepared to open talks with Man United and bid for Fred, but Maurizio Sarri told me no – he doesn’t want Fred.”
“He did the same with [Giovanni] Lo Celso. Sarri wants [Piotr] Zielinski and [Samuele] Ricci.”
Fred is still expected to leave Man United this summer
The 30-year-old has just one year left in his contract with United, and they want to raise funds by offloading him this summer.
Fred has made 213 appearances for United since signing from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2018.
He has been a fine servant, often used in big games, with his energy being his biggest asset.
However, Erik ten Hag wants more technical players in his squad.
Mason Mount has made his way to Old Trafford from Chelsea. He will fight with Christian Eriksen for the number eight spot.
United are interested in signing Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat, but his arrival depends on player sales in the coming weeks.
Galatasaray and Fulham are other clubs reported as potential suitors for the Brazilian ace.
The Turkish club have made their first bid for Fred, but United turned it down as it did not meet their asking price of £20 million.