Azzurri defender Francesco Acerbi witnessed his relationship with Lazio deteriorate over the course of the previous season, fueling links of his exit with a host of Serie A suitors. His relationship with both coach Maurizio Sarri and the fans hit rock bottom last season, and only a move away from the capital is likely to revive his career.
As per La Stampa (via LazioNews24), the 34-year-old, who has already been scouted by Serie A newcomers Monza and champions Milan, reportedly also has the attention of Torino. The Granata are prepared to lose star defender Gleison Bremer, but would need to shell out €4-5M for the Lazio center-back, as demanded by president Claudio Lotito. However, it is his €2.5M net per season wages that pose as a bigger problem for them.
Apart from Torino, Napoli are also keeping close tabs on Acerbi and got in touch with Lazio. According to Sky Sport, Kalidou Koulibaly’s departure from the Partenopei ranks is all but imminent, as Chelsea draw closer and closer to securing his signature.
This brings into the picture the potential onboarding of veteran Acerbi to fill in the Senegalese’s boots. He is seen as an experienced replacement in the eyes of potential suitors, and now with the transfers of Mario Gila from Real Madrid and Alessio Romagnoli from Milan, there is virtually no chance of redemption at the Stadio Olimpico for him.
Acerbi, who has 173 caps for the Bianocelesti, was recently subject to various chants and boos by the Lazio faithful in their pre-season training camp in Auronzo di Cadore. He responded by ironically applauding the fans’ gestures.