Chelsea may have kept hold of Olivier Giroud for now but they face a battle to retain him beyond the summer.
The Frenchman was tipped to leave west London in January as he struggled for game time.
But a recent return to the starting XI and several big performances have proved his worth as he challenges Tammy Abraham.
Inter Milan were thought to be his most likely destination at the start of the year as Antonio Conte eyed a reunion.
But according to Gazzetta Dello Sport it was actually Lazio who headed the queue and they are likely to return again this summer.
The club from the Italian capital were said to have put forward an impressive case to the World Cup winner, so much so that they now look favourites for his signature.
Giroud's contract at Stamford Bridge expires in the summer, although he has said he is open to the idea of prolonging his stay with the Blues.
"Yes, of course," he answered when asked whether he would consider signing an extension.
"And after I think I have two, three nice seasons in front of me. It’s not the time to talk about contracts. But one more time I will take a decision when it comes."
His exit looked inevitable a matter of weeks ago but he insists he is "happy" at Chelsea .
He added: "It’s behind me. It was a tough month for me. I just spoke with the manager and I believed what he said, that I would get my chance and he has given me my chance.
"I have tried to give his confidence back on the pitch. I do my job the best that I can and I’m very happy to be back in the team. Of course, my confidence is better.
"The transfer window is behind me. I’m a Chelsea player, I’m happy here again and that’s the most important thing."
