Unsettled Lazio Defender in Contact with Arab Suitors | OneFootball

Lazio defender Samuel Gigot has reportedly initiated talks with several clubs in the Arab world, as his future in Rome looks bleak.

The Background

The 31-year-old joined the Biancocelesti last summer, sealing a deadline switch from Olympique Marseille to replace Nicolo Casale who headed to Bologna. The Frenchman initially signed for Lazio on loan with an obligation to buy which has now been triggered.

Maurizio Sarri Changes the Pecking Order

Gigot wasn’t a regular starter for Marco Baroni, as Mario Gila and Alessio Romagnoli cemented themselves as the main duo at the back. But while the Avignon native still made 15 Serie A appearances last season, he might struggle to amass playing time this term, as Maurizio Sarri seems to favor Oliver Provstgaard and his old pupil Patric, at least when the latter is healthy.

Why Lazio Are Reflecting on Samuel Gigot

According to Il Messaggero (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), Gigot’s future has been a topic of discussion among Lazio officials in recent days, as the management doesn’t rule out his exit. After all, the French defender earns €2 million per year, which is a considerable figure for a player who’s at the bottom of the pecking order.

Suitors in Arabia

Therefore, the centre-back has reportedly opened talks with Arab clubs, particularly in Dubai and Qatar, and has already found himself suitors who are willing to match his Lazio salary at the very least.

The Link with Patric

Nevertheless, Gigot’s future could be tied to Patric’s condition, as the latter has been struggling with injuries since December. For his part, the former Marseille star has also missed Lazio’s most recent friendlies against Fenerbahce and Galatasaray due to back problems.