Lazio Target Franjo Ivanovic Loan Move After Benfica Frustrations

FolioPitch.com – 29 July 2026 | Report Lazio want Ivanovic on loan after struggle for Benfica playing time. The Italian club has reportedly set its sights on the Croatian international, hoping to offer him a path to regular first-team action that has been elusive in Portugal.

Franjo Ivanovic, 22, joined Benfica from Union Saint-Gilloise last summer for a fee of €22.8 million, but he has started only 13 of 42 competitive appearances this season. Despite scoring eight goals and providing two assists, the striker has grown frustrated with limited minutes and is seeking a move to reignite his career.

According to transfer expert Alfredo Pedullà, Lazio have made initial contact with Benfica regarding a dry loan—no option or obligation to buy. The Serie A side believes they can offer Ivanovic the platform he craves. The Report Lazio want Ivanovic on loan after struggle for Benfica playing time has gained traction as the January window approaches, with several other clubs also monitoring the situation.

Como in Serie A, Galatasaray of the Turkish Super Lig, Real Betis in La Liga, and Hull City from the Championship have all expressed interest. However, Lazio’s pitch appears to be built on immediate playing time, which could sway the player’s decision. Ivanovic has earned nine caps for Croatia, scoring two goals, and his development has stalled at the Estádio da Luz.

Lazio’s attack has relied heavily on Ciro Immobile, but the veteran striker is 34 and the club is planning for the future. Ivanovic fits the profile of a young, mobile forward who can operate centrally or wide. The transfer would be a low-risk gamble for the Biancocelesti, as they would cover wages without a permanent commitment.

The Report Lazio want Ivanovic on loan after struggle for Benfica playing time has been echoed by multiple sources close to the negotiation. Benfica are open to letting him leave temporarily, provided the deal suits their valuation. With the player eager to prove himself ahead of the 2026 World Cup, a move to a competitive league like Serie A could be ideal.

Ivanovic’s agent has reportedly been in talks with Lazio officials, and preliminary discussions have been positive. The Croatian international is known for his pace and work rate, but he needs consistent minutes to refine his finishing and decision-making. Lazio’s coach, Maurizio Sarri, values technical players who can press high, making Ivanovic a potential fit.

Other suitors remain in the race. Galatasaray offers European football, while Hull City provides a competitive environment in England. However, Lazio’s stature in Serie A and their clear need for a young striker give them an edge. The outcome hinges on Benfica’s willingness to sanction a loan without a purchase clause.

In conclusion, the Report Lazio want Ivanovic on loan after struggle for Benfica playing time highlights a strategic move by the Rome club to bolster their squad without major financial outlay. If successful, Ivanovic could revive his career under the guidance of Sarri, while Lazio gain a promising talent for the second half of the season. The coming weeks will be decisive as negotiations progress.