Bournemouth seek reduced fee to keep Christos Mandas as Lazio reconsider future

Bournemouth remain interested in signing Christos Mandas on a permanent basis, but negotiations with Lazio could prove far more complicated than initially expected.

The Greek goalkeeper endured a frustrating loan spell on the south coast, failing to make a single Premier League appearance despite arriving in search of regular first-team football.

Nevertheless, reports from Italy suggest Bournemouth have not completely abandoned hopes of keeping the 24-year-old beyond this summer.

Mandas joined Bournemouth with an option to buy believed to be worth €18 million.

At the time, Lazio were optimistic that the clause would eventually be activated, partly because the Italian club were eager to generate funds through player sales.

However, the situation has changed significantly.

According to Corriere dello Sport, Bournemouth would only consider a permanent move if Lazio agree to reduce their valuation.

The Cherries remain interested in the goalkeeper, but they are unwilling to meet the full €18 million figure following a season in which he played no competitive league football.

As a result, both clubs may need to enter fresh negotiations if a deal is to be revived.

The biggest complication stems from developments in Rome.

Lazio's goalkeeping department could undergo major changes during the summer transfer window.

Veteran goalkeeper Ivan Provedel is attracting interest from Inter Milan after losing his place towards the end of the season, while youngster Edoardo Motta impressed sufficiently to force a rethink regarding the hierarchy.

Those developments have increased Mandas' importance.

Reports suggest Lazio president Claudio Lotito is reluctant to lose both Provedel and Mandas in the same window, while manager Gennaro Gattuso would also be happy to keep the Greece international in his squad.

That stance strengthens Lazio's negotiating position considerably.

The player himself is reportedly waiting before making a final decision.

Mandas is expected to discuss his future with both clubs before determining his next move.

While remaining at Bournemouth is still an option, there are growing reasons to believe a return to Lazio could become increasingly attractive.

Having spent the season on the bench in England, the goalkeeper's priority remains securing regular playing time.

That objective was the primary reason behind his move away from Lazio in the first place.

Discussions between Bournemouth, Lazio and Mandas are expected to take place in the coming weeks.

The outcome may ultimately depend on Lazio's goalkeeping plans and whether Bournemouth can negotiate a lower fee. For now, the goalkeeper is keeping his options open, but a return to Rome increasingly appears to offer the clearest route towards regular first-team football.

Should Christos Mandas stay at Bournemouth and fight for opportunities, or return to Lazio and chase the number-one shirt?