Thomas Strakosha could now derail Eddie Howe’s transfer plans as the reported Newcastle United target’s recent displays are tempting Lazio to consider offering him a new contract.
That’s according to Calciomercato, who report the Albania goalkeeper is impressing Stadio Olimpico chiefs with his latest performances. Now, the Biancocelesti are weighing up a U-turn, having begun planning for his exit with Strakosha a free agent at the end of the term.
Maurizio Sarri remains open to the shot-stopper staying in Rome past the season as neither have yet secured their next option. Strakosha has his bags backed to leave in a Bosman deal in June. But Lazio will hold fresh talks at the end of the term if he is still without a new club.
Lazio are reflecting on their decision to let Strakosha leave when his contract ends as it will be a mistake to let him go for free. Yet if a new deal remains impossible to agree, the Serie A side will go all-out for Sergio Rico. Lazio also admire Chelsea stopper Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Rico sits higher on the Stadio Olimpico outfit’s shortlist, though, as Lazio expect Paris Saint-Germain will sell for €4-5m (£3.5-4m). Sarri also supports the Spaniard’s arrival, while Rico wants to leave PSG permanently after a loan spell with Mallorca than returning to France.
Lazio considering new Thomas Strakosha contract after Newcastle lodge approach
But Lazio now considering offering Strakosha a new contract will come as a blow for Howe as he targets a new goalkeeper for Newcastle in the summer transfer window. La Lazio Sia Monoi noted last week that Toon chiefs have made an initial approach to discuss his move.
The Biancocelesti will be the club’s biggest threat to signing the 27-year-old, however. He has not closed the door on staying in Rome, and Strakosha would choose to remain a Lazio player. But Sarri’s side are yet to agree to his €2m-a-year (£32k-a/w) wage demand to stay.
Strakosha also wants a €2-3m (£1.5-2.5m) signing bonus, which may prove more attractive than PSG’s fee for Rico. So, Newcastle may have to hope Sarri’s desire to sign a goalkeeper with greater ability on the ball sees Lazio back away from giving Strakosha a new contract.
Sarri would also like an option between the sticks who offers superior leadership than the shot-stopper former Lazio boss Alberto Bollini called ‘tenacious’. Yet the funds he can save by retaining Strakosha may swing the tide in favour of Lazio keeping the Newcastle target.
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