£26.7m rated Chelsea target close to new deal but release clause may offer hope

Lazio sporting director Igli Tare has revealed that Lazio defender Stefan de Vrij is close to signing a new contract with the Serie A club.

Italian website Cittaceleste.it reported last week that Chelsea were lining up a €30m (£26.7m) bid in the summer, and Football-Italia.net reports that the Dutchman could have a low release clause even if he does agree a new deal with Lazio.

Speaking to Italian TV Network Mediaset Premium (translated by Football-Italia.net), Tare said:

“I prefer not to talk about this tonight, there will be a communique soon to that effect. It’s more in than out though.”

“There is complete agreement with the player, the problem is with his agency but these are bureaucratic matters. It’s a never-ending story but we’ll decide soon.”

De Vrij’s current contract expires at the end of the season, and the Blues could agree to sign the centre back on a free transfer in the summer, but the 26 year old is said to be content to stay at the Stadio Olimpico for the time being.

The existence of a low buyout clause would suggest that the Dutch international is keeping his options open, although the exact figure to trigger his release hasn’t yet been revealed.