Bundesliga Defender’s Move to Lazio Risks Collapse as Deadline Passes | OneFootball

Lazio might decide to end their negotiations with Union Berlin defender Diogo Leite following a recent setback.

Lazio Identified Diogo Leite as Alessio Romagnoli’s Successor

The Biancocelesti are planning a revamp in the centre-back department, as Mario Gila and Alessio Romagnoli could both be heading to the exit door, in addition to the almost forgotten Samuel Gigot.

Lazio sporting director Angelo Fabiani thus identified Leite as a suitable profile to replace Romagnoli in the role of the left central defender. The Italian capital side already tried to acquire the Portuguese when the former AC Milan captain was close to joining Al-Sadd in January. The two parties then delayed the move until the summer, when the 27-year-old will become available on a free transfer.

Lazio Left Frustrated as Leite Yet to Undergo Medical

In recent days, it was reported that Lazio and Leite were close to finalizing their deal. The Bundesliga defender is already eligible to sign a pre-contract agreement ahead of a summer move. He would be the club’s second free agent signing of 2026 after Villarreal left-back Alfonso Pedraza.

However, Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla reveals that the parties are now facing a stumbling block. As the source explains, the financial aspect isn’t the issue, as the Porto native has agreed personal terms and is ready to sign a three-year contract.

Nevertheless, Lazio have been keen to conduct a medical test following the player’s recent return from injury, setting their deadline on March 31. However, this ultimatum has now passed, and the green light for the medical has yet to arrive, much to Lazio’s dismay.

Therefore, it remains to be seen if Fabiani and Co. will take a patient approach and extend the deadline, or shift their focus towards alternative profiles. The club has also been linked with River Plate’s 22-year-old defender Lautaro Rivero.