AC Milan Preparing €15M Onslaught for Lazio Stalwart | OneFootball

AC Milan have identified Lazio defender Mario Gila as one of the main targets ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window.

The Background

The 25-year-old has been with the Biancocelesti since making the move from Real Madrid in 2022. Following a lengthy settlement period, he has now emerged as one of the most sought-after centre-backs in Italian football.

Although he’s been enduring a bumpy campaign, the Spaniard showcased his true worth in his Man-of-the-Match performance against Sassuolo on Monday.

Why Mario Gila is Destined to Leave Lazio

Unfortunately for Lazio, Gila’s departure appears to be inevitable, as there haven’t been any concrete developments regarding the player’s contract extension. The defender’s current deal is set to expire in June 2027, and he remains one of the lowest earners in the first team, with a salary just above €1 million.

It has been reported that Lazio didn’t even bother proposing a new contract to Gila and his entourage, because Claudio Lotito and Angelo Fabiani were fully aware that the answer would be negative. Therefore, most observers believe that a summer sale is almost inescapable.

Milan Making Plans for Gila

According to Il Corriere dello Sport (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), Milan are already plotting a move for the Barcelona native. The club’s sporting director, Igli Tare, was the one who brought Gila to Lazio in 2022, and he would like to acquire his services once more.

The Figures & Clauses

The Roman newspaper adds that the Rossoneri are hoping to close the deal at €15 million. While this relatively low figure doesn’t fully reflect the player’s value, his expiring contract could force the Aquile to grant discounts; otherwise, they risk losing him for free a year later.

To make matters worse for the Biancocelesti, they will only collect half of the transfer fee, as the player’s former employers, Real Madrid, possess a 50% sell-on fee.