Rumour: Miroslav Klose set to sign a new deal despite Gunners interest

Miroslav Klose had the highest conversion rate of any striker with more than 15 goals this season.

Lazio are optimistic of tying up a new contract for former Arsenal target Miroslav Klose. The German international is out of contract at the end of the season and was reportedly close to a loan switch to Arsenal during the final embers of the transfer window.

However the 35-year-old looks set to sign a new deal to stay in Lazio, with club president Claudio Lotito telling reporters that he is likely to sign a fresh contract.

“Klose’s renewal? We have a great relationship with Miro and we have a lot of respect for each other,” opened Lotito.

“I think that all the right conditions are there to reach an agreement.

“Once the time is right, we will hold talks and try to reach the right conclusion.”

The 35-year-old has scored five league goals in 18 league appearances for Lazio this season and has also contributed one assist.

He was linked with a loan move to Arsenal to provide short term competition for Olivier Giroud and Nicklas Bendtner. However the move failed to materialise and Arsenal are now likely to move onto new targets in their search for striking reinforcements.