Lazio are facing a difficult situation with defender Mario Gila, just months after rejecting a €35 million offer from Bournemouth, according to reports from Il Messaggero relayed by La Lazio Siamo Noi.
The Spanish centre-back has become one of Lazio’s most consistent performers this season, but the club’s ongoing financial troubles mean they could now be forced to sell him for significantly less than what was offered in the summer.
Lazio regretting Bournemouth rejection
Back in July, Bournemouth reportedly tabled a €35 million bid for Gila — a proposal delivered directly to Lazio by the player’s entourage. Despite the substantial sum, Lazio president Claudio Lotito turned it down, confident that the 25-year-old would continue to rise in value.
That decision now appears costly. With the club struggling financially and failing to make progress on a new contract — Gila’s current deal expires in 2027 — Lazio are under growing pressure to cash in during the January transfer window.
Il Messaggero notes: “There’s been no progress regarding a new deal and a sale is now the most likely option. The situation has become precarious, and Lazio may have to accept a lower offer than in the summer.”
From key figure to financial casualty
Under Maurizio Sarri, Gila has been vital to Lazio’s tactical setup this season. His adaptability — even filling in as a defensive midfielder when needed — has seen him become one of the squad’s most dependable figures.
However, the club’s precarious financial standing has placed even key players at risk of being sold. Lazio’s summer rejection of Bournemouth’s bid is now being viewed internally as a missed opportunity, especially since the defender’s current market value has dropped.
| Mario Gila – Key Details | Stat |
|---|---|
| Age | 25 |
| Position | Centre-Back / Defensive Midfielder |
| Contract Expiry | June 2027 |
| Bournemouth Offer (Summer 2025) | €35 million |
| Current Inter Milan Offer | €20 million |
source: Il Messaggero / La Lazio Siamo Noi – 15 November 2025
Inter Milan circling with reduced offer
Il Messaggero adds that Inter Milan have now emerged as frontrunners to sign Gila, but their proposal of €20 million falls well short of the fee Lazio previously turned down.
President Lotito is reportedly demanding a higher figure in an effort to ease financial pressure, but Lazio’s limited bargaining power — and the player’s rising profile — mean they could struggle to resist fresh bids in January.
Gila is understood to be happy in Rome but remains open to a move if Lazio fail to stabilise their finances or offer clarity about his future.
Our View: A transfer mistake Lazio can’t afford
In our view, Lazio’s refusal to sell Gila to Bournemouth in the summer could prove one of their biggest market missteps in recent years. The defender’s stock was high, the fee significant, and the club’s need for liquidity already clear. Now, facing the prospect of accepting nearly 40% less, Lazio find themselves backed into a corner.
For Bournemouth, this could be an opportunity to re-enter the race on improved terms — especially if Andoni Iraola is still keen to strengthen defensively.
Key Insights
- Bournemouth’s €35m bid for Mario Gila was rejected last summer.
- Lazio’s financial problems now force them to consider selling in January.
- Inter Milan have submitted a reduced €20m offer.
- Gila has become a key figure under Maurizio Sarri.
- Lazio regret not cashing in when the valuation was higher.
What’s Next
Unless Lazio can secure new funding or player sales elsewhere, Gila’s departure in January 2026 looks increasingly likely. The club remains in talks with Inter Milan but may also reopen dialogue with Premier League sides, including Bournemouth, who still hold long-term interest in the Spanish defender.
👉 Bournemouth fans — should the club revisit their pursuit of Mario Gila in January, especially at a lower price?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *