Chelsea keep looking for a fresh central defender and Mario Gila is suddenly on their radar. After the Blues missed Dean Huijsen, who is slated to join Real Madrid, the Lazio centre-back has become a prime goal. Chelsea will battle Inter Milan, but their intention to complete defensive reinforcements before the Club World Cup points towards Gila’s future being determined in the following weeks.
As Huijsen opts for a move to Spain, Chelsea have turned their attention to Gila as a possible pillar in Enzo Maresca’s changing defense line. Having signed for Lazio in 2022, the 23-year-old Spaniard is seen as a player whose talent fits perfectly into Maresca’s possession-based system set at Stamford Bridge.
As the west London side prepares early transfer activity for a tough 2025–26 season, Gila’s name has been added to an expanding list of defensive options.
🚨 Chelsea are ready to bid €35M to win the race for Lazio defender Mario Gila's signature.
(Source: Orazio Accomando) pic.twitter.com/9LOUWIDj6o
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) May 28, 2025
Chelsea Step Up Interest in Gila
Chelsea’s interest on Gila is not new, but it has increased after their main target, Huijsen, chose Real Madrid. Particularly his composure on the ball and calm decision-making under pressure, Gila’s performances in Serie A have not gone unnoticed. Given his qualities, he would fit perfectly into a Chelsea team that prioritizes control in build-up play.
Gila stands 1.85 metres tall and combines technical skill with a physical presence. His versatility stems from his ease in both a back four and a three-man defense line. Chelsea’s defensive shape under Maresca is going to call for flexibility, therefore Gila’s adaptability stands out among the choices presented.
Inter Milan are also keeping a careful eye on events. With the size and desire to draw the player as Champions League finalists, reports claim they have kept a long-lasting interest in the erstwhile Real Madrid youth product.
#Wolves have reportedly made an offer for Lazio central defender Mario Gila (24). 🇪🇸 #WWFC
Chelsea are said to have also bid €35M for the player with Brighton also said to have tabled an offer. However, it’s thought that the Italian side want €50M for Gila’s sale this summer.… pic.twitter.com/p0k8yE3FxY
— Talking Wolves (@TalkingWolves) May 28, 2025
Gila’s Fit and Transfer Complications
Gila’s progress in Italy has been really remarkable. His intelligent placement, passing accuracy, and progressive passes define him as a modern defender—exactly the kind Chelsea are pursuing. Signing him might not be easy, though.
Given Gila’s contract expires in 2027, Lazio are still reluctant to sell. Furthermore, the defender’s value—currently estimated at around £30 million—could grow if more than one team joins the hunt. Negotiations could be delayed and the price raised by a possible bidding war among Chelsea, Inter, and other European clubs.
Gila’s wish for consistent playing time is one of the most important elements in this move. The Spaniard seeks continuous minutes at his next club and won’t tolerate a rotational position. Particularly with the club getting ready for a Premier League, Champions League, and Club World Cup in the United States campaign, Chelsea has to convince him that he will be a starter.
The Blues aim to grab the majority of their transfer objectives before June 15, the opening date of the Club World Cup. Early availability of Maresca’s full squad is essential to guarantee tactical coordination and optimum preparation. Gila could be a big addition, but only if Chelsea act swiftly and offer the player a really convincing plan.
After failing to sign Dean Huijsen, Mario Gila has emerged as one of Chelsea’s main defensive goals. Given Inter Milan’s competition and Lazio’s unwillingness to sell, the Blues will need to act swiftly to finalize the agreement. Gila is well suited for Maresca’s system because of his characteristics. However, whether Chelsea can assure the role he demands will determine the course of events.
Do you think Chelsea’s defence should add Gila? Let us know in the comments below!
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