Lazio ‘to hold’ Formello talks on Mauro Icardi as Lotito backs move | OneFootball

Mauro Icardi wants Lazio as his next club, with key discussions planned at Formello today to settle the club’s stance, Il Messaggero reports.

The 33-year-old ended a four-year spell with Galatasaray and is a free agent, so he can still join a new team at any point during the season.

Il Messaggero adds that Parma, Elche, Monterrey and Olympiacos have shown interest, but the striker views Lazio as the most appealing option. Even so, the move is not straightforward amid differing views inside the club.

Head coach Gennaro Gattuso has resisted the idea, concerned about squad balance and dressing-room harmony. Sporting director Angelo Fabiani, previously thought to be driving the pursuit, is now said to align with Gattuso’s position, the report says.

Club president Claudio Lotito, the Italian senator, is described as the main advocate and would like the former Inter Milan captain as a marquee signing to cap a positive summer. He may also be seeking favour with supporters, though this is unlikely to quell protests. Today’s meeting is expected to determine whether to table an offer or walk away.

Meanwhile, Il Corriere dello Sport claims Icardi is unlikely to join, chiefly due to Gattuso’s stance. The 48-year-old has already influenced other calls, urging Lazio to keep Matteo Cancellieri and pushing for Andrea Pinamonti, which is why he is not keen to add another centre-forward.

Source: The Laziali

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