Lazio Interested in Bringing Former AC Milan Full-Back Back to Italy | OneFootball

Lazio are reportedly keeping tabs on Panathinaikos right-back Davide Calabria, who could be open to a swift Serie A return.

The Background

The 29-year-old is an AC Milan youth product who was promoted to the first team in 2015, and went on to become a stalwart at the back. When Alessio Romagnoli left the club to join Lazio in the summer of 2022, Calabria inherited the captain’s armband. However, his role decreased following Stefano Pioli’s departure in 2024.

Davide Calabria and Mattia Zaccagni (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Last season, the Brescia native lost his starting spot to Emerson Royal, before leaving Milan following Kyle Walker’s arrival in January. Despite winning the Coppa Italia during his brief loan spell at Bologna, the Rossoblu opted against keeping him, so he ended up joining Panathinaikos on a free transfer last summer.

Davide Calabria is on Lazio’s Radar

Calabria swiftly established himself as a regular starter in Athens, making 17 appearances for the Greek giants, contributing with two goals and one assist. But according to several sources in the Italian media, including Il Corriere dello Sport, Lazio could attempt to bring the Italian player back to his home country.

Lazio Consider Calabria a Potential Replacement for Adam Marusic

As the source explains, the Biancocelesti haven’t been able to find a breakthrough in their negotiations with Adam Marusic, who is running on an expiring contract. Therefore, the management identified Calabria as a younger replacement with somewhat similar attributes.

Why Lazio Won’t Sign Calabria in January

In January, Lazio’s priority is to buy a new midfielder, as well as an understudy for Mattia Zaccagni on the left wing, with Lorenzo Insigne considered the favorite for the role. The club would also need to find replacements for Nuno Tavares, Christos Mandas, and Taty Castellanos if they end up leaving the club.

On the other hand, Calabria could be a target for the summer, as Maurizio Sarri has enough options at right-back until the end of the season, with Manuel Lazzari and Elseid Hysaj (currently off the Serie A squad list) acting as back-ups for Marusic.