Lazio Shortlist Three Young Strikers After Missing Out on Giovane | OneFootball

Lazio have reportedly set their sights on three young forwards after falling short in the race for Hellas Verona’s Giovane.

Giovane Finalizing his Transfer to Napoli

Despite their good relationships with the Gialloblu, the Biancocelesti couldn’t close a deal for the 22-year-old striker, who will be announced as a new Napoli player in the coming hours. The reigning Italian champions were able to strike a swift agreement with Verona and the player after sending Noa Lang to Galatasaray.

Lazio Tracking Three Young Strikers

According to Il Corriere dello Sport (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), the Aquile are looking to bounce back from the setback by recruiting another young attacker. Lazio sporting director Angelo Fabiani has three top names on his shortlist, beginning with George Ilenikhena, a 19-year-old Nigerian centre-forward who currently plays for Monaco.

George Ilenikhena

The teenager was born in Lagos, but began his playing career in France with Amiens. Following a one-year experience in Belgium with Royal Antwerp, he returned to France through the gates of Monaco in 2024. While he still isn’t a regular starter, he has already made more than 50 appearances for the principality club.

Shaqueel Van Persie

The second name on the list is Shaqueel Van Persie, the son of former Arsenal and Manchester United striker Robin Van Persie. The 19-year-old is still considered a youth player at Feyenoord, but he’s beginning to feature with the seniors. This season, he made two appearances in the Eredivisie, scoring a couple of goals in the process.

Agustin Ruberto

Finally, Lazio are monitoring Agustin Ruberto, a 20-year-old Argentine centre-forward who rose through the ranks of River Plate and has been a member of the senior team since January 2024. The San Fernando native made 47 appearances this season, contributing with 20 goals and two assists. His contract with the Buenos Aires giants expires in December 2027.