The harsh stance by Lazio ultras on Francesco Acerbi will not affect the plans of the club. The defender will remain a linchpin of the starting lineup going forward. Claudio Lotito, who is not one to be afraid of clashing with fans, has no intention to budge to a minority, La Repubblica reports.
On the contrary, Lazio are rallying around Acerbi and shielding him. The defender has come under fire for silencing the Curva during a celebration. Moreover, he pointed out that the stands are as crowded as they used to be and certainly not as in Roma games.
The 33-year-old faced criticism also for his performances in a four-man defense. But rather than cast him aside, the club and the coaching staff will continue working on it. He is under contract until 2025 and has one of the highest salaries on the roster, making his departure ever so unlikely.
Rather than on the future of Acerbi, Lazio are more preoccupied with other matters ahead of the January window. Their search for a backup striker has become more complex. Two targets are no longer viable. Erik Botheim has officially joined Krasnodar from Bodo/Glimt, while Kevin Lasagna has recently gained a meaningful role at Verona.
They could turn their attention to another Scaligeri forward, Nikola Kalinic, Corriere dello Sport reports. Moreover, they could have the opportunity to arrange a swap with Torino. The Granata have expressed interest in Manuel Lazzari and Mohamed Fares. The Biancocelesti could get Simone Zaza in return, Il Messaggero informs.