Sergio Zarate, Mauro Zarate’s brother and agent, has declared that Lazio would be a “mediocre” side without the striker.

Sergio has claimed that the Biancocelesti's defence is shaky at best, and there is no supply line from the middle of the park to the strikers. He added that the team is dysfunctional as a whole.

"I am saddened to say this, but this is a mediocre side without Mauro," his agent told Sera on Radio Sei.

"The defence is not secure, there is no link between the midfield and forwards, and the team doesn't function on a continuous basis.

"If he doesn't get the ball, I don't see any light for them.

Sergio rubbished suggestions that his brother is set to buy out his contract with Lazio due to the club's losing season.

He continued, "He does not think about leaving, and only wants to do well at Lazio. When he signed a five-year contract, he was ecstatic about the decision he had made.

"We shall evaluate the club's situation - and any offers - in the next few years that are presented to us.

"In any case, I want to affirm that Mauro is really happy in Rome, and has no intention of leaving.

"If the president wants to sell him, it is his decision exclusively, and if he decides to sell him, we cannot do anything about it," he concluded.