Inter Milan are ready to move decisively for Mario Gila, but Lazio president Claudio Lotito is holding firm on his asking price.
According to Il Messaggero, via FCInterNews, the Nerazzurri are prepared to offer €20 million for the Spanish defender.
However, that figure is considered insufficient by the Biancocelesti.
Lotito’s stance is influenced by the fact that 50% of any future sale would go to Real Madrid.
As Madrid are Gila’s former club, this significantly complicates negotiations.
The Lazio owner would therefore rather risk losing the player for free than sell below his valuation.
Lazio & Lotito Stand Firm Over Inter Links To Gila
Mario Gila Lazio
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 04: Mario Gila of SS Lazio in action during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Cagliari at Stadio Olimpico on November 04, 2024 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Earlier this year, Bournemouth tabled a €35 million bid.
However, the offer was turned down due to Lazio’s inability to bring in replacements during the summer transfer window.
For Inter, Gila is seen as a potential replacement for Francesco Acerbi, who is likely to leave the club next summer.
Talks between Lazio and Gila’s agent Manuel García Quilón over a contract renewal have also hit a stalemate.
Therefore, prompting speculation over a potential January sale.
However, Maurizio Sarri is reluctant to approve any move unless a suitable replacement is lined up.
Indeed, the coach views Gila as an essential part of his defensive setup this season.