Liverpool target Davide Astori has until the end of the day to decide on a proposed move to Lazio, according to reports in Italy.
Il Messaggero claims the Rome outfit will move on to other targets if their final deadline comes and goes without the 27-year-old making a definitive choice.
The report also reveals that Serie A champions Juventus have joined the race following their appointment of Massimiliano Allegri as manager, and they are ready to battle Liverpool for his services if Lazio fall out of the picture.
Allegri was swiftly installed as the new man at the helm following the shock resignation of Antonio Conte, who led the Turin giants to three successive domestic titles but quit one day after the start of pre-season.
His exit is thought to have come after crisis talks with the Juve hierarchy about the potential sale of midfielder Arturo Vidal to Manchester United.
A source close to Anfield told Football Express News that the Reds are keeping an eye on the Astori situation and could yet firm up their interest with a formal offer.
However, he remains in limbo despite Lazio agreeing a £5million fee and drawing up a lucrative four-year deal for the player.
He has less than 12 months left on his current contract and has snubbed the offer of an extension.