Lotito: ‘Lazio do not need to sell, totally unfounded’ report of exit | OneFootball

President Claudio Lotito continues to insist Lazio ‘have no need’ to raise funds despite their transfer embargo, reports he’d sell the club are ‘totally unfounded,’ and hit out at other teams with debt.

The Aquile failed three different financial stress tests in March, meaning they are under the unusual situation of not being allowed to bring in any new players over the summer, not even free agents or loans.

Lotito has responded by criticising the rules rather than trying to bolster the coffers with fresh funds, which he insists are unnecessary.

At a press conference to present returning coach Maurizio Sarri this evening, the patron took the opportunity to defend himself against criticism from fans.

Lotito hits out at Lazio critics

epa11068012 Lazio�s president Claudio Lotito celebrates after winning the Coppa Italia quarter final soccer match between SS Lazio and AS Roma, in Rome, Italy, 10 January 2024. EPA-EFE/FABIO FRUSTACI

“It is down to a practical matter, at the time the liquidity index was introduced to ensure clubs wouldn’t go bankrupt during the course of a season,” said Lotito.

“The transfer embargo was imposed due to an oversight, because all we had to do was move €3.6m costs from March to April and it would’ve been fine.

“How many clubs have bonds that allow them to carry on? Or have hundreds of millions in debt? Yet their liquidity index is fine.”

The costs were tied to improvements for the Formello training ground, where Lazio are also having their pre-season camp rather than going elsewhere.

“Lazio are working to improve the infrastructure. If we had wanted to correct the economic aspect, we would’ve sold players, but we received big offers and decided not to sell, because we have no need to do so.

“We sold Loum Tchaouna for €15m. Lazio do not need to sell anyone else. Those players who are not suited to the project will be sold and replaced with others who are stronger and more functional in January.”

With that in mind, Lotito has also rejected the idea that he was ready to sell the club after more than 20 years.

“Totally false. These are totally unfounded stories. There has never been an offer, just the fantasy of someone who wants to create problems for the club and for me. I will not let anyone cause problems for this club.

“Nobody has ever turned up with an offer and I don’t think anyone will. I have no intention of alienating Lazio.”