Juventus Attempted Swoop for Italian Midfielder Before Lazio Deal | OneFootball

Davide Frattesi was arguably Lazio’s marquee signing of the summer transfer window. The former Inter midfielder has hit the ground running upon his return to the Italian capital, netting three goals in his first three Serie A appearances and establishing himself as an immovable pillar in Gennaro Gattuso’s midfield.

While the Biancocelesti hierarchy moved decisively to wrap up negotiations with Inter within a matter of days, underlying details have surfaced regarding significant interest from elsewhere in Serie A; Lazio were not the only club looking to secure the 1999-born midfielder’s signature during the summer window.

The Late Approach From Turin

According to transfer insider Matteo Moretto, Juventus launched a serious inquiry to sign Frattesi prior to his transfer to Rome.

Executive Giovanni Carnevali personally reached out to explore the feasibility of a deal and conduct in-depth discussions regarding the midfielder’s availability; the Bianconeri were eager to add dynamic, goalscoring quality to their central midfield unit and viewed Frattesi as a primary target capable of altering their tactical setup.

Tactical Hesitation & The Veto

Despite the inquiry from Turin, the prospective deal hit an immediate roadblock on the coaching side. Luciano Spalletti ultimately opted against giving the final green light for the transfer, expressing doubts over how Frattesi would fit into the tactical structure and player profile requirements he envisioned for the midfield.

With Spalletti holding back his approval, Juventus were unable to advance negotiations further, allowing the opportunity to stall before formal proposals could be finalized.

Bound for Formello

Even as Juventus attempted to insert themselves into the picture, Frattesi’s preference remained clear throughout the process. Having spent part of his youth development within the club’s ranks, the midfielder was already firmly committed to returning to Rome and rejoining Lazio.

The attempt from Turin ultimately led nowhere, clearing the runway for Lazio to finalize personal terms and welcome Frattesi back to Formello. His early-season form – scoring against Bologna, Genoa, and Udinese – has proved that the move was the ideal outcome for both player and club.