RIO DE JANEIRO, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Vasco da Gama are interested in signing attacking midfielder Manuel Lanzini on a free transfer, according to media reports in Brazil.

The Rio de Janeiro outfit submitted a formal offer to secure the former Argentina international after identifying him as an ideal No. 10 in a team currently lacking creative playmakers, Globo Esporte reported.

It added that Lanzini is currently holidaying with his family and has not yet responded to the proposal.

River Plate, with whom Lanzini began his professional career in 2010, are also reportedly interested in signing their former star.

Brazil's winter transfer window is due to begin on July 3 and will run until August 2.

Vasco are currently 19th in the 20-team Brazilian Serie A standings with just one win from 10 matches so far this season.