Maurizio Sarri is still desperate to sign Ruben Loftus-Cheek but his agent Jonathan Barnett underlined the difficulty of a move to Lazio.
The Biancocelesti coach remembers the English midfielder well from their time together at Chelsea, the 26-year-old’s best season with the Blues, and he’s been keen to bring him to Rome for months now, dreaming of a move back in the January transfer window.
With a market value of €20 million and a contract lasting until 2024, things look a little inaccessible for Lazio.
Speaking to Tuttosport, Loftus-Cheek’s agent Jonathan Barnett discussed the possibility of joining Lazio and why it may be hard to secure the Chelsea midfielder.
He and Sarri have a very good relationship, but for the moment there is nothing. Despite the phase of change, Chelsea are still a top club. It is difficult to leave such a club.
The 26-year-old Loftus-Cheek made 24 Premier League appearances this season for Chelsea, for a total of 1386 minutes. In that time, he provided three assists, being given limited chances under Thomas Tuchel.
Under Sarri in the 2018-19 season, he scored six goals and provided two assists in 24 league appearances.
Apollo’s Thoughts
This shouldn’t come as a surprise to any Lazio fans. Despite endlessly dreaming of a move for Loftus-Cheek, I find it incredibly hard to imagine Sarri getting his man this summer. It seems almost impossible for the Roman club to afford his wages and a deal would only be accessible if Chelsea were open to a loan move with either a buy option or obligation to buy clause attached.
In a world where Lazio do secure Loftus-Cheek’s signature, I think he’d be amazing in Serie A. He clearly fit Sarri’s system well in West London and he has both the physicality and technique to shine in Italy.