Aston Villa Target Set to Stay at Lazio Despite Absence of Contract Renewal

Lazio defender Alessio Romagnoli is reportedly set to stay at the club even though the management cannot satisfy his longtime request.

The Background

The 30-year-old is a Biancocelesti childhood supporter who realized his dream by signing for the club as a free agent in the summer of 2022 following spells at Roma and Milan. The Italian has been a protagonist at the back ever since, but he has been unsatisfied with the treatment he received from the hierarchy.

Lazio’s Broken Promise

Romagnoli turned down more lucrative offers in favor of joining his beloved Lazio on a five-year contract with a net salary of €3 million per season. At the time, club president Claudio Lotito promised him a pay rise if he could help the club secure a spot in the Champions League, but the latter didn’t keep his word following the team’s second-place finish in 2022/23.

The defender then voiced his frustration in recent months, which prompted new talks with the management. However, Lazio’s transfer market has been blocked by COVISOC after failing to balance their books, at least based on the club’s most recent financial report.

Hence, the Aquile aren’t only prevented from signing new players, but they’re also unable to change contract terms. Therefore, Romagnoli won’t receive a new deal anytime soon.

Alessio Romagnoli Wants Lazio Stay

Nevertheless, Il Corriere della Sera (via Calciomercato) reveals that the former Milan captain has decided to stick by his beloved Lazio, refusing to leave the club in these particularly challenging times, especially since the management won’t be able to buy a replacement.

The source adds that the two parties would be able to resume their negotiations in the fall, at least if Lotito and Co. succeed in lifting the ban.

Romagnoli’s Global Admirers

Romagnoli’s situation had attracted several suitors in recent months, including rich clubs from the Saudi Pro League, as well as Aston Villa who are aiming to bolster their defensive ranks. Nevertheless, Maurizio Sarri’s return played an elemental role in convincing the defender to stay, as he’s expected to play a pivotal role at the back under the guidance of the 66-year-old.