Empoli confirm Napoli ‘offered more’ for Fazzini than Lazio | OneFootball

Empoli director Roberto Gemmi confirms Napoli made a higher offer for Jacopo Fazzini, but they were closer to a deal with Lazio. ‘It is unlikely at this stage.’

There were reports that an agreement was imminent for Fazzini to the Stadio Olimpico, though it all fell apart over the last couple of days.

Lazio President Claudio Lotito told Sky Sport Italia today that he made a proposal worth “over €10m” that was rejected by Empoli.

Speaking to Sky Sport Italia this evening, Empoli director of sport Gemmi gave their version of the situation regarding the Italy Under-21 international midfielder.

Empoli confirm Fazzini situation

Jacopo Fazzini of Empoli FC during the Serie A match between Parma and Empoli at Stadio Ennio Tardini on October 27, 2024 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

“We were not expecting it, but this is what happens in transfer negotiations and it is only right that each club looks after its own interests,” said Gemmi.

“We were not actually far away from an agreement on the figures and the player was convinced too, but the formula was the big problem and that saw the whole operation collapse.”

There had been reports that Napoli made a higher bid than Lazio, but that Fazzini thought he could get more regular playing time in Rome.

“Napoli also had interest and made an offer, which was a little higher, but we never got into the same specifics as we did with Lazio,” explained the Empoli chief.

“Fazzini preferred going to Lazio rather than Napoli too. The issue was mainly the formula of the transfer, whether it was a loan with option or obligation, there are certainly technical issues both clubs needed to take care of and requirements for the balance sheet.”

Considering they were so close, could Lazio and Empoli resume those talks and get a deal done for Fazzini?

“I never close the door permanently on any negotiation, but I will admit that it is unlikely at this stage.”

The midfielder had been left out of the Empoli squad for the most recent Serie A game because the move was considered imminent.

“The player is a great professional and it was me and the coach who decided to leave him out for the most recent match so he could relax and decompress a little.

“Fazzini is already back in training and ready to resume with Empoli. He is a product of our academy, we’ll see how it all develops, but after two or three shaky days, he will get back on track.”