Fulham are edging closer to completing a deal for Thomas Strakosha, who is leaving Lazio on a free transfer this month.
The 27-year-old Albanian shot stopper failed to agree to a contract renewal after a tough two years in the Italian capital, where he was forced to re-earn his starting spot after dropping behind Pepe Reina in the club’s hierarchies.
As reported by The Sun, Strakosha is close to signing a four-year contract with Fulham worth around €1.2 million net per season plus add-ons, as well as a fairly hefty signing-on bonus.
The Albanian goalkeeper joined Lazio in the summer of 2012 from Greek side Panionios in a deal worth around €75,000. In his 10 years in Rome, Strakosha made 208 appearances across all competitions, conceding 247 goals and keeping 62 clean sheets. He was a key part of the Lazio sides that won two Coppa Italia and two Supercoppa Italiana titles.
Apollo’s Thoughts
The saddest departure of the summer, for me. Strakosha clearly loved Lazio and worked hard across his time in Rome, remaining professional even after losing his starting spot. The Albanian may not have been a top five shot stopper in Serie A, but he was a player who performed well and had the club close to his heart.
