Bournemouth and Tiago Pinto are shaking Lazio.
Earlier this month, the Italian press were quite sure that Ferencváros talent Alex Toth would end up at the Serie A side. In November, Newcastle United and Juventus were credited with interest.
Now, it seems like Bournemouth are closing in on the youngster’s signature.
Il Messaggero – relayed by LaLazioSiamoNoi, reported on Monday that Lazio had offered €12m for the midfielder.
This was likely to be enough for the Hungarian club, whose initial demand was €12m plus bonuses. Lazio are no strangers to surprises in the transfer window, and Maurizio Sarri can now be annoyed again.
Calciomercato IT report the 20-year-old is one step away from joining Bournemouth. They express disbelief, claiming explaining there’s ‘no way’ the Rome club should be losing out to the Cherries.
Praise is placed at Tiago Pinto’s door, as the Portuguese transfer guru has played a key role and ‘won over’ Toth. There’s confidence, and annoyance, that the chase for Toth is now over.
Corriere dello Sport add some financial details, making it clear that Ferencváros actually demanded €16m for the sale. That was more than what Lazio believed it to be. As a result, their €12m offer didn’t work, and Bournemouth have sealed the deal.
Bournemouth arrival hyped by agent ahead of transfer
At the same time, excitement is growing in Hungary about the transfer.
Hungarian newspaper Blikk share excitement over Toth's transfer to Bournemouth
Hungarian newspaper Blikk share excitement over Toth’s transfer to Bournemouth
Blikk echo the sentiment that Toth will join Bournemouth. This move is seen as a big positive, as the Cherries helped Hungary international Milos Kerkez develop well.
There’s hope that the Premier League club can now do the same with Toth.
Bence Papp, the player’s representative, hyped the situation when speaking in November: “Th e international press is also interested in the possible transfer of Alex. He has since been mentioned among the midfielders with the greatest potential, showing his abilities at international level both in Ferencváros and in the national team.
“Perhaps no young Hungarian player playing in Hungary has ever been talked about as much as he is now. This is clearly to his and Fradi’s credit. Naturally, I do not want to comment on the rumours, but I can tell you that it is worth monitoring his situation.
“This transfer – which could take place in the summer at the latest – will fundamentally change the perception of Hungarian football on the international market.”
Big words ahead of Toth’s transfer to Bournemouth.