Lazio ‘Very Interested’ in Out-Of-Contract Villareal Full-Back | OneFootball

Lazio have reportedly added a new name to their left-back shortlist, as they’re now considering making a move for Villarreal’s Alfonso Pedraza.

Nuno Tavares Destined to Leave Lazio

The Biancocelesti could part ways with Nuno Tavares in January. The former Arsenal man has been dropped to the bench after failing to impress Maurizio Sarri, with Luca Pellegrini now considered the manager’s first choice on the left flank. The 25-year-old Portuguese player has an offer from Al-Ittihad, and it remains to be seen if the parties will be able to reach a final agreement.

Lazio Set Sights on Alfonso Pedraza

In the meantime, Lazio are reflecting on their options in the market, as they’ll be expected to recruit a direct replacement if Tavares ends up leaving Rome. According to Italian journalist Alfredo Pedullà, the Aquile are ‘very interested’ in Pedraza, who is currently running on an expiring contract.

Alfonso Pedraza (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Aside from a few loan spells at the likes of Leeds United and Real Betis, the 29-year-old has been at Villarreal since the very start of his career. However, he is apparently destined for a new experience. The Yellow Submarines would like to keep their stalwart until the end of the season, but Lazio could try to work out a January cut-price deal.

Why Maurizio Sarri Would Like to Sign Pedraza

The Villarreal youth product is considered a complete full-back, capable of offering contributions at both ends of the pitch, making him the sort of profile that Sarri appreciates. Nevertheless, as Pedullà explains, Aaron Martin remains high on Lazio’s shortlist, even though he’s considered a more attacking profile compared to Pedraza.

Aaron Martin Still the Favorite for Lazio Move?

Like his fellow Spaniard, Martin’s contract only runs until June, but the Grifone haven’t given up on finding an accord on a renewal. The 28-year-old is an Espanyol youth product who has been plying his trade at the Luigi Ferraris since 2023.