Brighton & Bournemouth Trying to Lure Lazio Defender to the Premier League | OneFootball

While the track that leads to Real Madrid has faded, Lazio defender Mario Gila has been gaining suitors in the Premier League.

The Background

The 24-year-old is a Los Merengues youth product who joined the Italian capital side in the summer of 2022. While it took him some time to build himself a reputation in Serie A, he has now cemented himself as one of the finest defenders in the league, and his exploits have attracted a number of suitors in Italy and abroad.

Brighton Preparing Offer for Mario Gila

According to Il Corriere dello Sport, Brighton are willing to put €30-35 million on the table in an attempt to sign Mario Gila. However, this figure might prove insufficient for Lazio, as they would only be able to collect half of the transfer fee, with Real Madrid entitled to receive a 50% sell-on fee. The Biancocelesti are thus seeking €40 million at the very least.

Bournemouth Want Dean Huijsen Replacement

In addition to the Seagulls, Bournemouth are also keeping tabs on the Spanish defender. The Cherries have just sold Dean Huijsen to Real Madrid for €60 million, so they’ll be looking to reinvest a portion of this figure on a direct replacement.

Big Clubs Yet to Show Up for Mario Gila

But as the report explains, if Mario Gila is going to leave Lazio, his intention would be to join a top club that regularly competes for the highest honours on the domestic and European stages. However, a return to Madrid is no longer on the cards, while Inter Milan’s reported interest has yet to translate into a concrete offer.

Lazio Must Improve Spaniard’s Contract

As for the Aquile, keeping the Spain international at Formello would first require a new and improved contract. Mario Gila’s current deal with Lazio will expire in June 2027, and he is among the lowest earners at the club, with a net salary of €1 million.