Lazio Turn to Belgian Defender After Missing Out on Two Previous Targets | OneFootball

Lazio have reportedly set their sights on Standard Liege centre-back Ibe Hautekiet, who could be the solution for their defensive dilemma.

Lazio Defence Undergoing Revamp

This summer, the Biancocelesti have arguably lost the services of one of the finest defenders in Serie A by selling Mario Gila to AC Milan. Moreover, Alessio Romagnoli’s fate remains shrouded in mystery following the unexpected bureaucratic hurdles that hampered his move to Al-Sadd.

The Biancocelesti have already filled one slot by signing Danilho Doekhi on a free transfer, but they’re still planning to buy another defender to anticipate Romagnoli’s potential departure.

Lazio Missed Out on Sergio Dominguez & Noah Markmann

Earlier in the summer, Lazio identified Sergio Dominguez as their primary target at the back. However, Angelo Fabiani and co. failed to close a deal with Dinamo Zagreb, as the two clubs couldn’t agree on the transfer fee or the formula. The Aquile then reached an agreement with FC Nordsjælland for Noah Markmann, but the young Dane and his family refused to move.

Lazio Eyeing a Move for Ibe Hautekiet

According to Il Corriere dello Sport, Lazio have now resorted to Hautekiet, a 24-year-old Belgian defender who has been at Standard Liege since 2023. The Roman newspaper believes the player is enticed by the opportunity to play for the Italian capital side, but the main stumbling block is, once again, reaching an agreement on the formula.

Why Lazio & Standard Liege Can’t Agree on Formula

As the source explains, Lazio are offering a loan with an option to buy that could potentially turn into an obligation, as the club would like to delay financial commitments to next summer due to their shaky financial situation.

On the other hand, Standard Liege are satisfied with their current economic position, so they have no urge to accept what they consider to be unfavourable terms. In other words, the Belgians are only willing to permanently sell the defender whom they have under contract until June 2029.

Hautekiet’s Background, Stats & Market Value

Hautekiet is a youth product of Zulte and Club Brugge. The right-footed defender has garnered 55 appearances in the Belgian top flight, scoring two goals and providing an assist in the process. Transfermarkt estimates his current value at £4 million.