The father of departing Manchester City hero David Silva admits his son wants to play in Italy.

Silva is said to have agreed terms with Lazio in the last 24 hours.

Dad Fernando Silva told El Transistor: "David told me some time ago that he wanted to leave Manchester City at the end of a decade-long era. I would like him to stay in Europe.

"I can confirm that he loves Serie A and would really enjoy playing in Italy. He told me he could play there until he was 40.

"At the moment there are many offers and he has to decide, but I would love if he signed for Lazio, because even if Rome is quite far away, it would be a huge opportunity for him. I know it is unlikely that he will return to Spain as he always tells me to rule out the idea of returning to Valencia."