Lazio are willing to allow Mario Gila to run down his contract rather than sell him cheaply this summer, despite mounting interest from Napoli and Milan in one of Serie A’s standout centre-backs of the past twelve months.
According to Fabrizio Romano, via CalcioMercato, Napoli have been tracking the Spanish defender for over a month and he has emerged as a top defensive priority under incoming coach Massimiliano Allegri and sporting director Giovanni Manna.
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Gila’s contract expires in June 2027, but Lazio are not prepared to facilitate a discounted exit and have made their position clear.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 15: Mario Gila SS Lazio celebrates a victory after the Serie A match between SS Lazio and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on March 15, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Napoli’s Champions League trump card gives them the edge in Gila pursuit
Napoli hold a strong hand.
The prospect of Champions League football is understood to appeal significantly to the Spaniard, who has never competed in the competition, and his familiarity with Serie A means no adaptation period would be required.
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Allegri’s personal admiration for the player, he had identified Gila as a target during his time at Milan, adds further momentum to Napoli’s pursuit.
Milan’s interest has effectively stalled following their leadership overhaul, with Gila having been a favourite of outgoing sporting director Igli Tare. Lazio, meanwhile, are content to wait, the club have shown repeatedly under Lotito that they would rather lose a player on a free than negotiate under duress.
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