Lazio want Ivanovic on loan amid Benfica struggle for playing time
Quick summary
Lazio are reportedly interested in taking striker Ivanovic on loan from Benfica after the player has struggled for game time in Portugal.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceLazio have reportedly set their sights on Benfica striker Franjo Ivanovic, hoping they can offer him something Como, Galatasaray, Real Betis and Hull City cannot.
The 22-year-old Croatia international made the move to Benfica only last summer from Union Saint-Gilloise at a cost of €22.8m.
Ivanovic wants playing time PODGORICA, MONTENEGRO – NOVEMBER 17: Franjo Ivanovic of Croatia warms up prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Montenegro and Croatia at Podgorica City Stadium on November 17, 2025 in Podgorica, Montenegro. (Photo by Filip Filipovic/Getty Images) He scored eight goals with two assists in 42 competitive games for the Portuguese side , but was frustrated that he only got to start 13 of those matches.
According to Sportitalia transfer pundit Alfredo Pedullà , Ivanovic is eager to get regular playing time and this is the biggest consideration when looking for the next step in his career.
Lazio believe they can provide that promise, so have reportedly asked Benfica if they can sign him on a dry loan, without an option to buy.
There has been some interest in the centre-forward from Como in Serie A, Galatasaray in the Turkish Super Lig, and Hull City in England.
Ivanovic made his senior Croatia debut last year and has two goals with one assist in nine caps.
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What happened
According to reports, Serie A club Lazio are exploring a loan move for Benfica striker Ivanovic. The player has found first-team opportunities limited at Benfica, and a move to Italy could offer him a clearer path to regular football. The report suggests initial discussions around a potential loan arrangement rather than a permanent transfer.
Chance analysis
Ivanovic would offer Lazio additional depth and competition in attack if the loan materialises. For Benfica, offloading a fringe player on loan would free wages and squad space. The key variables are whether Benfica are willing to let him leave mid-window and whether Lazio can cover his salary demands.
Potential boost to Lazio's attacking options on loan; limited immediate impact for Benfica, who may welcome trimming the squad.
Monitor Lazio attacking depth and Ivanovic's role at Benfica — if the loan completes, Lazio gain a forward option but his lack of recent minutes is a risk indicator.