It’s not the best time to be a Lazio fan, but at least some of them can still see the funny side.

The Serie A outfit have just lost their captain and club legend Ciro Immobile to Besiktas, and supporters are waiting on a replacement, and had got their hopes up about Mason Greenwood.

A four-time Capocannoniere as Italy’s top scorer, the sale represents a substantial blow, particularly after a disappointing seventh-place league finish last season.

So understandably, pressure is turning towards club president Claudio Lotito, who typically didn’t respond in the most dignified manner.

Speaking after losing out on Greenwood to Marseille, Lotito commented: “If the fans want him, let them put up the money.”

Well, responding in a rather sarcastic fashion, Lazio’s pre-season training camp in Auronzo di Cadore was met with charity boxes, featuring the words ‘fundraising for future purchases’.

That likely won’t help the mood, but Lotito has some defence, having already signed Matteo Guendouzi permanently for €15million.

“Lazio has signed six players, what have the others done?” he said. “We have spent more than Juventus.

“The fans want a big name, but I ask you, did Immobile do well last year? It’s like having a car that stops on the street, we need one that works.”