“I’m Flattered” – Serie A Midfielder Responds to Liverpool Transfer Rumours | OneFootball

Liverpool Transfer Rumours: Nicolo Rovella Plays Down Anfield Link Amid Lazio Commitment

As the footballing calendar contorts to accommodate FIFA’s expanded 2025 Club World Cup, an early June transfer window has added fresh urgency to clubs’ summer dealings. With just a ten-day stretch from June 1 to June 10 available for early registrations, top European clubs are wasting no time in securing reinforcements—both for immediate needs and long-term planning.

Among the more intriguing stories surfacing in this frenetic environment is Liverpool’s reported interest in Italian midfielder Nicolo Rovella, currently on loan at Lazio from Juventus. The 23-year-old, who has quietly emerged as one of Serie A’s most reliable midfielders this season, has caught the eye with a profile that would seem a logical fit for the Premier League.

Rovella’s Rising Stock in Rome

Rovella’s form this season has been nothing short of impressive. A deep-lying playmaker with excellent defensive nous, he brings a rare balance of intelligence, work rate, and composure in possession. According to FBref, the midfielder ranks in the top 10% for both tackles (2.96 per 90) and interceptions (1.59 per 90), while also boasting elite metrics in passing volume and accuracy:

“Passes Attempted: 71.87 – 91st percentile”“Pass Completion %: 89.3% – 89th percentile”

Photo: IMAGO

These numbers reflect a player who not only breaks up play efficiently but also dictates tempo from deep—exactly the kind of midfielder Liverpool were often said to have lacked during the Klopp era and even at times under Slot’s reign, despite his recent title-winning campaign.

In addition to his defensive contributions, Rovella also plays an effective role in build-up and final-third transitions:

“Progressive Passes: 5.55 – 69th percentile”“Shot-Creating Actions: 2.51 – 62nd percentile”

While not prolific in terms of goals or direct assists, his influence in orchestrating attacking phases is evident and could be invaluable in a high-possession system like Liverpool’s.

Player Responds: Commitment to Lazio

In an interview with La Lazio Siamo Noi, Rovella himself addressed the rumours, showing both maturity and allegiance to his current club:

“I’m flattered that the big clubs are looking for me, but I’m already at a big club.”“I hope to win a lot here, to bring Lazio back to the top.”

It’s a diplomatic but pointed statement. Rovella is clearly aware of the speculation but seems keen to keep focus on Lazio’s immediate objectives—namely, securing Champions League qualification. His loan from Juventus reportedly includes an obligation to buy, meaning Lazio will likely make the deal permanent, barring any unforeseen financial setbacks.

This clause—and Lazio’s Champions League fate—could shape the entire narrative. Should Lazio miss out on top four, financial pressures might tempt them to entertain offers, particularly if Juventus are open to renegotiating terms or profit-sharing.

Liverpool’s Midfield Puzzle Remains Unsolved

While Rovella might not be a marquee name like Jude Bellingham or Declan Rice, he fits Liverpool’s model of shrewd, stats-driven recruitment. He’s young, tactically intelligent, and offers a blend of skills ideal for a modern midfield three. With Arne Slot at the helm and already delivering Premier League glory in his first campaign, the Anfield hierarchy may view Rovella as a seamless fit for the Dutchman’s structured and dynamic system.

That said, interest alone doesn’t always lead to transfer activity—especially when the player in question seems settled and the buying process involves multiple clubs (Lazio and Juventus).

As it stands, Rovella remains one to watch. But unless Lazio’s circumstances dramatically shift, Liverpool may need to look elsewhere for midfield reinforcements.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, there’s a mix of intrigue and frustration with reports like this. While Nicolo Rovella is undoubtedly talented, he isn’t quite the headline-grabbing name that most supporters crave—especially after winning the league. With Arne Slot establishing an attacking identity and delivering immediate success, expectations are now sky-high.

There’s an argument to be made that Liverpool should be targeting players who can instantly elevate the first XI, not just bolster squad depth. Rovella, for all his promise, feels more like a low-risk addition than a transformational figure.

Moreover, fans will be wary of drawn-out negotiations involving multiple parties. If Lazio are committed to buying him and Rovella himself is saying, “I’m already at a big club,” what’s the point chasing shadows?

We’ve seen this before—smart scouting links that never materialise because of complex contract situations or lack of player interest. Unless Rovella actively pushes for a move or Lazio fail to activate their clause, this might be another case of “one that got away” or, perhaps more accurately, “one we never truly chased.”

With the Champions League back at Anfield and Slot building serious momentum, Liverpool should be aiming higher or, at the very least, acting with greater decisiveness.