Ligue 1 Defender Reportedly ‘Very Close’ To Joining Lazio
Lazio, one of Italy’s most storied clubs, is on the verge of a significant defensive signing. According to reports, the Biancocelesti have accelerated their pursuit of RC Strasbourg’s central defender, Abakar Sylla. This move comes amidst a chaotic transfer period for the club, which has been heavily involved in the ongoing saga surrounding Chelsea midfielder Cesare Casadei. Despite the Casadei situation, Lazio remains focused on strengthening their backline, and Sylla has emerged as the most promising candidate to fortify their defense.
Market Chaos
The transfer market can often be a chaotic and unpredictable arena, and Lazio is no stranger to this turbulence. The club’s efforts to secure Cesare Casadei have been fraught with complications, with the young Italian midfielder now reportedly closing in on a move to Torino. However, the Biancocelesti have not let this setback deter them from their other objectives. In the midst of this market chaos, they have steadfastly pursued defensive reinforcement, with Sylla being the top target. The Ivory Coast international’s young age and potential make him an attractive addition to a squad in need of a fresh injection of talent.
Lazio Close in on Abakar Sylla
Italian journalist Damiano Er Faina has reported that Lazio is "very close" to finalizing a deal for Sylla. The transfer is expected to be a loan arrangement with an option to buy, valued at €15 million. This agreement would not only bring a promising young talent to the Italian capital but also circumvent the issue of the club’s congested Serie A senior list, as Sylla, at 22, does not require a spot on it. This strategic move by Lazio highlights their commitment to building a balanced and sustainable squad for the future.
Refreshing the Backline
Lazio’s defensive lineup has been a cause for concern in recent seasons, with the majority of the starting options being on the wrong side of 30. The addition of Abakar Sylla would bring much-needed youth and dynamism to a defensive unit that has been aging rapidly. Currently, the only center-back under 30 is Mario Gila, who is 24. The other options, Patric (31), Samuel Gigot (31), and Alessio Romagnoli (30), have shown signs of wear and tear. Sylla’s arrival would not only provide a physical presence but also inject a competitive spirit that could help rejuvenate the entire backline.
Who is Abakar Sylla
Abakar Sylla, the 22-year-old Ivorian defender, has had a meteoric rise in his young career. He began his journey in his home country with SO Armee before catching the attention of Belgian giants Club Brugge, who signed him in 2021. Brugge then made a substantial profit by selling Sylla to French club RC Strasbourg in 2023 for €20 million. Despite his promising start, Sylla has found his playing time limited in recent months, with Strasbourg manager Liam Rosenior favoring the partnership of Mamadou Sarr and Ismael Doukoure. This lack of regular game time has only added to Lazio’s interest in the talented center-back, seeing an opportunity to bring in a player with immense potential at a reasonable price.
A Strategic Move for Lazio
The potential addition of Abakar Sylla to Lazio’s roster represents a strategic and well-calculated move by the club’s management. Not only does it address the immediate need for defensive reinforcement, but it also aligns with the club’s long-term vision of building a squad that can compete at the highest levels. Sylla’s youth and adaptability make him a valuable asset, capable of growing with the team and contributing to its success for years to come. As Lazio continues to navigate the complexities of the transfer market, the signing of Sylla could prove to be a pivotal moment in the club’s quest to regain its former glory.
