Maurizio Sarri benched Pepe Reina in the Sampdoria game, and started Thomas Strakosha, who fared better. The two will remain in contention for the rest of the season. Lazio have begun looking for a permanent solution in the role, La Gazzetta dello Sport reports.
The Spanish veteran initially joined to back up the Albanian international in 2020. He took over after the teammate contracted COVID and suffered other physical problems. Sarri, who was familiar with him since his Napoli days, opted to stay the course last summer.However, Reina’s performances have taken a nosedive over the last month. Instead, Strakosha had been steadier in Europa League after a glaring blunder against Galatasaray.
Both Lazio goalkeepers are on expiring contracts. The 26-year-old had halted the extensions talks after the demotion and was looking to move to the Premier League. The new chance might not significantly alter the future plans. The club seems keen on moving on from him too. The deal of Reina includes an optional season triggered by the qualification to a European competition. He could continue to be the backup.
Lazio are tracking three opions for the future. The coach would like to reunite with Chelsea’s Kepa Arrizabalaga, but he has very high wages. Barcelona’s Norberto Neto is longing for an opportunity to resume being a starter and could move for a reasonable fee. The Biancocelesti are also pursuing Porto’s Diogo Costa. However, he is under contract until 2026, and his price tag is set to balloon in the next few months.