TuttoMercatoWeb have reported news of Lazio being one of many clubs keen on signing Nantes defender Diego Carlos. The Brazilian player has made a total of 25 appearances this season for the French side and has proved as a key man in Claudio Ranieri‘s system, since the Italian took over as manager.

Carlos’ agent has reportedly made contact with Inter and Roma among others, which quickly caused a response from Fiorentina and Lazio; who will probably be in need of a marquee centre back as Stefan de Vrij seems bound to leave in summer transfer window. Although Diego Carlos has a long-running contract with Nantes (until 2022), with the Canaries likely to miss out on Europe, the defender’s departure seems very realistic.

Before joining Nantes in July 2016, Carlos plied his trade in Europe in the Portuguese Primeira, playing for Porto B and Estoril Praia. Since arriving in Ligue 1, the Brazilian has recorded 63 appearances and scored three goals. According to source, his market value is now over €12 million.

Interestingly, Diego Carlos found himself under the spotlight of worldwide football audience after an (in)famous incident after the clash with Paris Saint-Germain at Parc de Princes in January. During the match, referee Tony Chapron tried to kick Carlos and eventually sent him off, after the player had appeared to be shoving the referee in the back while both had been running down the pitch.