Juventus close in on £37 million Nesta

Juventus are ready to pay £37 million to sign Alessandro Nesta from SS Lazio.

Lazio general manager Massimo Cragnotti has named the price that the Rome club want for their captain and Italy centre back with the Italian champions the only serious contenders at the moment to sign Nesta.

"Anyone who wants Nesta must come to us with £37 million," said Cragnotti after a meeting with club directors and Nesta's agents who have already had talks with Juventus management about the summer transfer.

"Several clubs are interested but we will set the price and be in charge of negotiations."

Inter denied two weeks ago that they had signed Nesta but remain interested in the centre back who is expected to star for Italy at the World Cup finals.

Argentine striker Hernan Crespo is also heading out of Lazio with Madrid and FC Barcelona ready to sign him.

Barca have offered Rivaldo for Crespo and midfielder Gaizka Mendieta but Madrid lead the chase for the striker.

Juve's capture of Nesta will free up Lilian Thuram's move to Manchester United after the World Cup finals.