Lazio struggling to cut wage bill

Both Mendieta and Claudio Lopez (pictured) are on big money contracts at Lazio - and the club are desperate to cut their costs.

However, Mendieta's contract is worth around £2.2 million a year, until 2006, and not only has he refused a pay-off, but the figure is also making it tricky for other clubs to buy the player.

The Spaniard has spent the season on loan at Barcelona, but several other clubs would be interested in the player if he agreed on a release sum from his present deal.

Claudio Lopez is also proving problematical, with the player not only on a huge salary but also attracting a good deal less interest from other clubs.

The Argentine winger rejected an offer from Valencia, and there is no other bids being prepared for the player.