Napoli's Creative Swap Bid
Napoli are exploring an inventive swap deal to sign Lazio centre-back Mario Gila, with the club prepared to offer striker Lorenzo Lucca as part of a player-plus-cash exchange. According to Sky Sport's Manuele Baiocchini, via LaLazioSiamoNoi, the Serie A champions are eager to strengthen their backline under incoming coach Massimiliano Allegri and see Gila as an ideal addition.
The stumbling block remains the fee. Lazio president Claudio Lotito values the Spanish defender at €30 million, a figure Napoli deem excessive given that Gila's contract runs until June 2027. By including Lucca—who spent last season on loan at Nottingham Forest and is surplus to requirements—Napoli hope to bridge the valuation gap and secure a deal in the coming days.
Gila in High Demand
Mario Gila has emerged as one of the summer's most sought-after defenders. Alongside Napoli, AC Milan and English side Bournemouth have registered interest. However, sources suggest Gila himself is keen on a move to the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, giving Napoli and Allegri a crucial edge in negotiations.
"Gila is pushing for the Napoli move, and that could prove decisive," Baiocchini reported.
The 23-year-old impressed during Lazio's Coppa Italia run last season, helping the club reach the final. His composure on the ball and aerial ability have made him a top target for clubs looking to add defensive depth.
Lucca as Makeweight
Lorenzo Lucca's potential inclusion adds a compelling layer to the talks. Lazio are actively seeking attacking reinforcements ahead of Gennaro Gattuso's first season in charge, and the 6'7" striker fits the profile of a physical focal point they currently lack. Lucca, 25, has struggled for game time at Napoli and his loan spell in the Premier League yielded mixed results, but a return to Italy could reignite his career.
If the financial structure of an exchange formula can be agreed—likely Lucca plus a cash sum—the deal could accelerate rapidly. Both clubs are motivated: Napoli to land Allegri's defensive target, Lazio to revamp their attack while cashing in on a player entering the final two years of his contract.
Key Takeaways
- Napoli are proposing a swap involving Lorenzo Lucca to meet Lazio's €30m valuation for Mario Gila.
- Gila is also wanted by AC Milan and Bournemouth but reportedly favours a move to Napoli.
- Lazio need a striker, making Lucca an attractive component in any deal.
- New Napoli coach Massimiliano Allegri is driving the pursuit of defensive reinforcements.
- A resolution could come quickly if the two clubs agree on the cash adjustment in an exchange.
Quick Facts
Player: Mario Gila (Lazio)
Age: 23
Position: Centre-back
Contract expires: 2027
Lazio asking price: €30m
Napoli offer: Lorenzo Lucca plus cash
Other interested clubs: AC Milan, Bournemouth
Lucca's 2025-26 season: Loan at Nottingham Forest