Inter Milan Identify Lazio Defender as Ideal Replacement for Francesco Acerbi & Stefan de Vrij | OneFootball

Inter Milan have reportedly set their sights on Lazio’s Mario Gila as they look to revamp their aging backline.

Old Habit

The Nerazzurri have made a habit out of poaching Biancocelesti defenders. In the summer of 2018, they famously signed Stefan de Vrij on a free transfer. Lazio replaced the Dutchman with Francesco Acerbi, but the latter eventually winded up joining the Beneamata himself in 2022. But with both players enduring recurring physical problems, Inter will be looking to add fresh faces to their defensive backline, especially with the veteran duo both running on expiring contracts.

Inter Milan Interested in Mario Gila

According to Il Corriere dello Sera (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), the Serie A champions are once again searching for a solution in Formello, identifying Gila as the right profile for the role. The former Real Madrid man has been at Lazio since 2022, and is now making major leaps and bounds under the guidance of Marco Baroni. It is worth noting that the Spaniard’s exit was one of the reasons that prompted the catastrophic collapse in the 0-6 beatdown.

Almost Impossible Operation?

Nevertheless, the source believes it will be very difficult, if not impossible for Lazio to sell Gila, especially in the middle of the season. Baroni often sings the defender’s praise, insisting he’d like to coach him for the rest of his career. The Barcelona native is tied with the Italian capital side with a contract lasting until June 2027.