Lazio likely to miss out on Manchester City starlet Claudio Echeverri | OneFootball

Lazio look unlikely to secure Argentine youngster Claudio Echeverri despite reports linking the Manchester City starlet to the Biancocelesti circulating over the past few days.

Calciomercato reports today the Premier League champions have decided to send the young midfielder on a one year loan this summer, but outline he is more likely to stay within the City football group’s portfolio of clubs.

Echeverri was poached from River Plate by Manchester City in January 2024 but spent another year with his former club on loan. Since arriving in Manchester this year he has failed to break into Pep Guordiola’s side, leading both parties to search for a loan move next season to gain regular playing time and continue the player’s development.

Today the Italian portal writes Girona is the most likely destination for the Argentine, ensuring he stays within the blues’ orbit.

This report comes after news emerged of Echeverri dining near Lazio’s Formello training base in Rome last week, fueling speculation negotiations could be ongoing between the English club and Lazio Sporting Director Angelo Fabiani. While it seems initial contact was made, discussions may not resume until the summer, when the 19 year old is sure of what offers are on the table.

Echeverri contributed two goals and four assists across 24 league appearances in Argentina last year, catching the eyes of a number of European clubs keen to acquire the starlet’s services.

Meanwhile, Pep Guordiola’s side have reportedly set their sights on Lazio’s Spanish defender Mario Gila, as they look to redevelop their side in the summer. Echeverri may become part of an agreement should a deal materialise, but for now things don’t look hopeful for the capital club with Girona in pole position.

Davide Kociu I GIFN