“Gila Is Not for Sale” – Lazio Director Tells off Napoli | OneFootball

Lazio sporting director Angelo Fabiani has declared the club’s intent to retain Mario Gila amid interest from Napoli and other suitors.

Mario Gila to Leave Lazio This Summer?

The Spaniard has been playing his football in the Italian capital since making the move from Real Madrid in the summer of 2022. The 25-year-old has now established himself as one of the best defenders in Serie A, but with his contract expiring next year, the Aquile are losing their leverage over his future.

Angelo Fabiani Sends Message to Napoli & Atalanta

Over the past few weeks, Gila has been heavily linked with a transfer to Napoli, who are trying to tempt Lazio by offering Lorenzo Lucca in exchange. Atalanta have also entered the fray, but neither club has come close to meeting Claudio Lotito’s €30 million asking price.

According to Il Messaggero (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), Fabiani has now declared that Gila is ‘not for sale’, claiming that the Aquile are planning to maintain the centre-back’s services.

What’s Behind Fabiani’s Words

As the source notes, the sporting director’s firm statement can be interpreted as a negotiation manoeuvre, implicitly urging Napoli and Atalanta to raise their offer, or forget about signing the Barcelona native.

Lazio Facing Gila Conundrum

It should be noted that Lazio aren’t willing to significantly lower their asking price, as 50% of the profit will head to Real Madrid, who possess a sell-on fee clause. Nevertheless, keeping Gila at the club beyond the summer effectively means losing his services for free in June 2027.