Real Madrid hold key advantage as PSG eye former youth team defender for summer move | OneFootball

Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique has set his sights on Lazio defender Mario Gila, a player also being closely monitored by Real Madrid, according to a report from Defensa Central.

The Spanish centre-back, who moved to Italy three years ago for just €6 million, has significantly raised his profile, attracting interest from top European clubs.

For that matter, it is said that Enrique is keen to reinforce PSG’s defence for next season, and alongside sporting director Luis Campos, he has identified Gila as a prime candidate.

The defender’s performances have not only caught the attention of the Parisians but also that of Luis de la Fuente, who recently called him up for Spain’s international fixture against the Netherlands.

Real Madrid are in the race

However, Real Madrid are still in the equation. When they sold Gila to Lazio in 2022, the club made sure to include key clauses in his contract, securing 50% of any future transfer fee.

PSG want to sign Mario Gila. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

Along with that, Real Madrid also signed certain clauses that could work in their favour if they want him to return.

In any way, the club will pocket half of the transfer sum if the deal with PSG goes through. While the Ligue 1 side’s pursuit could complicate a potential return to Madrid, the financial benefit remains significant.

What about Lazio?

Lazio, aware of the growing interest in their defender, are not willing to lose him easily. Reports suggest the Italian club is already in discussions to extend Gila’s contract beyond its current 2027 expiration date.

If PSG push ahead with their move, Real Madrid will have a decision to make—whether to activate their buy-back advantage or cash in on the player’s rising market value.

Either way, Mario Gila’s future is shaping up to be one of the more intriguing transfer stories in the coming months.