Why Brentford Hit the Brakes on Matteo Cancellieri Pursuit | OneFootball

Brentford have reportedly decided to halt their attempts to sign Lazio winger Matteo Cancellieri, whom they had scouted last week.

The Background

The Bees watched the 23-year-old in action during the 1-1 draw against Fiorentina at the Stadio Olimpico and the 1-0 away victory over Hellas Verona last weekend. Several sources in the Italian media revealed that the English club’s scouting culminated in an offer of €15 million, including bonuses.

Matteo Cancellieri No Longer Wanted at Brentford

For their part, the Biancocelesti turned down the bid, as they were said to be anticipating a more lucrative offer worth circa €18 million. But according to Italian journalist Alfredo Pedullà, Brentford have instead decided to abandon their plans for Cancellieri altogether. The transfer market insider believes they have already resorted to other targets, and they’re unlikely to rekindle their interest in the Italian.

Brentford Weren’t Impressed With Cancellieri in Verona

As the source explains, the West Londoners’ scouts saw some red flags in the winger’s most recent display at the Bentegodi. They felt the winger was too selfish in the final third. Moreover, the Premier League club’s officials also got the impression that the player was using their interest to negotiate better terms with Lazio.

Matteo Cancellieri (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

Cancellieri’s contract with the Biancocelesti is only valid until June 2027, so his renewal is an issue that the club must soon address. The Roman spent the previous two campaigns on loan at Empoli and Parma, but Lazio’s transfer ban granted him a new opportunity at Lazio, who couldn’t sign any new players last summer, and he managed to cement himself as a regular starter.

Cancellieri’s Stats & Duel with Gustav Isaksen

The Italian winger scored three goals in 13 Serie A appearances so far this season. Despite his highs and lows, most Lazio fans believe he should be in the starting lineup ahead of Gustav Isaksen, who has been struggling for form and fitness since the summer.