Lazio have yet to start negotiations with James Rodriguez, as Armand Laurienté remains the first name on Sporting Director Angelo Fabiani’s shortlist.
Recent reports in the Italian press linked the Biancocelesti with the Colombian star who returned to prominence following his exceptional exploits at the Copa America. The 33-year-old has recently left Sao Paulo so he’s currently available on a free transfer.
Nevertheless, Italian journalist Alfredo Pedullà pours cold water on the story, denying any contacts or negotiations between Lazio and Rodriguez. The transfer market guru suggests that an intermediary could have proposed the attacking midfielder’s services to the Italian capital side, but it remains a mere idea at the moment.
Lazio & James Rodriguez Yet to Open Talks
The experienced playmaker plied his trade at Porto, Monaco, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Everton in the past, but his career has been on the decline over the past few years. Rodriguez endured a torrid campaign at Sao Paulo, so he decided to rescind his contract with the Brazilian club.
Although it remains to be seen if Lazio will eventually open talks with the Colombian international, in the meantime, Pedullà insists that Laurienté remains the club’s priority target to bolster the attacking ranks. The 25-year-old Frenchman is desperate to leave Sassuolo following their relegation to Serie B, but the Emilians are refusing to sell for anything less than €15 million.
Why not Joaquin Correa? He’s younger and has quality. Last few years at Inter was difficult for him cause of injuries, but now Lazio could buy him back, maybe around 6M€. It’s bargain.
Tucu? Tucu is a white Keita Balde, lots of potential, great tehnique, good pace and speed, no brain!
Yes, Tucu might be good and experienced option to the team. But this is my opinion.
J. Rodriguez just doesn’t convince me. Lauriente is ok.
James was great in the Copa America for Colombia.
I think he would be an interesting option to add experience to this younger attack we have now. At least for a couple of seasons. Plus he would bring a lot of media attention to the team.
Right now we don’t have a single star player.