Lazio have joined Liverpool in the race to sign Stoke City midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri, according to Italian media outlet Calcio Mercato.

Liverpool recently opened talks with Stoke over the possibility of signing Shaqiri, who has a £13m release clause.

The Switzerland international has returned from World Cup duty - where he scored one and assisted another as his country reached the knockout stages of the tournament - and now his future is set to be resolved.

The 26-year-old hit eight goals for Stoke last year, while contributing with a further seven assists, but could not prevent his side from suffering relegation to the Championship.

Shaqiri is unlikely to remain with the Potters and has a relegation release clause which allows him to return to the top flight.

But Liverpool face competition from Serie A club Lazio, who are looking to replace West Ham United target Felipe Anderson.

The Verdict

Shaqiri is a an excellent player on his day, cutting inside from the right and hitting crosses and shots with his left and he possesses a major threat from set pieces.

Although he is not likely to get starting game time at Liverpool, he would still be a useful squad option for the Reds and he would be competing for trophies.

At Lazio, however, he could play a starring role in the Italian top tier.

Stoke fans - Where will Shaqiri end up playing his football next season? Let us know below...

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