Blow for Arsenal as In-Demand Lazio Star Snubs All Offers | OneFootball

Lazio full-back Nuno Tavares has reportedly chosen to prolong his stay at the Italian capital, despite receiving several proposals.

Nuno Tavares Has Had Highs & Lows at Lazio

The 26-year-old joined the Biancocelesti in the summer of 2024. After a stellar start to his Italian experience, he was slowed down by injuries during the second half of the 2024/25 campaign. Last season, he initially struggled to adapt to Maurizio Sarri’s style of play, which emphasises defensive discipline, but he eventually retained his starting role after showing vast improvement.

In recent weeks, Tavares has been linked with several clubs. Porto head coach Francesco Farioli has been urging the club’s hierarchy to bring the former Sporting CP and Benfica man back to Portugal, while Besiktas have had a long-standing interest in the player’s services. Even Fiorentina were mentioned as a suitor, with Lazio setting their asking price at €20 million.

Nuno Tavares Will Stay at Lazio

But according to Il Messaggero, Tavares has decided to reject all offers and instead extend his Lazio stint. This will be a financial blow for Arsenal, who could have collected around €7 million from their former player thanks to a 35% sell-on fee.

The Portuguese international realizes he will have to fight for a starting role with Alfonso Pedraza, who completed a free transfer from Villarreal last week.

Lazio Set to Sell Luca Pellegrini

With Tavares staying put, Lazio will instead focus on selling Luca Pellegrini, who has become surplus to requirements. With only one year left on his contract, the 27-year-old should have a modest asking price, but it remains to be seen whether he’ll manage to attract suitors. The Roman is reportedly wanted in the Premier League, particularly at Ipswich Town and Hull City.