Former Inter Milan Striker Puts Lazio on Hold as He Evaluates His Options | OneFootball

Lazio are making an effort to sign Mauro Icardi, but the latter remains reluctant to tie himself to the project.

Lazio Interested in Signing Mauro Icardi on a Free Transfer

The 33-year-old was one of the most prolific centre-forwards in Serie A during his time at Sampdoria (2011-2013) and Inter Milan (2013-2019). The former Nerazzurri captain then had a three-year spell at Paris Saint-Germain, followed by four years at Galatasaray, but he’s been a free agent since the start of the summer.

In recent weeks, Icardi has been widely considered Lazio’s top target for the striker role alongside Sassuolo’s Andrea Pinamonti. However, finding an agreement with the Argentine remains a tall order for Angelo Fabiani and Co.

Why Icardi is Stalling Lazio Talks

According to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Icardi and his entourage had initially expressed their openness to negotiate with Lazio officials, but they have now decided to put all talks on ice. While previous reports had mentioned a significant gap between the club’s offer and the player’s salary request, the Sky Sport Italia correspondent insists the striker’s priority is the sporting aspect.

In other words, the former PSG man is keen to find the right project, as he believes he cannot afford to make the wrong choice at this relatively late stage of his career. Therefore, the striker is expected to bide his time and await other proposals before picking his next destination. It should be noted that free agents are allowed to join a new club even after the transfer deadline.

Lazio Cannot Afford to Waste Time on the Market

While Icardi is in no rush to give a definitive answer, Lazio need to bolster their attacking ranks sooner rather than later, as illustrated by their toothless performance against Mantova, who shockingly eliminated them from the Coppa Italia. Hence, if the Argentine continues to stall, Claudio Lotito and Fabiani will likely accelerate their talks with Sassuolo for Pinamonti.