Lazio Turn Down Offer from Serie A Club for Bournemouth Target

Como have reportedly tried to recruit Lazio defender Mario Gila who has several suitors in Serie A and the Premier League.

The Background

The 24-year-old is a Real Madrid youth product who joined the Italian capital side in the summer of 2022. While he initially struggled for playing time, he has now established himself as a stalwart at the back, attracting the interest of a host of European clubs.

Bournemouth Keeping Tabs on the Lazio Defender

Gila has recently been linked with Bournemouth who reportedly identified as a potential replacement for Dean Huijsen who was sold to Real Madrid. Nevertheless, the defender’s list of admirers continues to grow, with new clubs entering the fray.

Como Submit Offer for Mario Gila

According to Il Corriere dello Sport (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), the ambitious Como presented the Biancocelesti with a bid of €20 million, while offering to double the centre-back’s salary. This proposal stems from Cesc Fabregas’ desire to work with his compatriot, as he believes the latter has what it takes to raise the level of his backline.

Lazio Keen to Maintain Gila

Nevertheless, Lazio almost immediately rejected the offer for two main reasons: First, the bid was deemed too low given the player’s value, especially with Real Madrid retaining a 50% sell-on fee. Second, the Biancocelesti aren’t willing to sell any of their top stars this summer since they won’t be able to replace them due to the tranfer ban imposed by COVISOC.

Gila Not Interested in Como Move

Moreover, Gila wasn’t keen on making the move to Como either. Even though the Lariani have been making large strides in recent years under their wealthy owners, the Spaniard isn’t intrigued by the opportunity to join them at this stage of his career.