Ligue 1 Defender Reportedly ‘Very Close’ To Joining Lazio | OneFootball

Lazio have reportedly accelerated their attempts to bring in RC Strasbourg central defender Abakar Sylla to the Italian capital.

Market Chaos

Although they’re currently embroiled in a chaotic transfer saga involving Chelsea midfielder Cesare Casadei who now appears closer to joining Torino, the Biancocelesti are also working on other fronts, as they’re also seeking defensive reinforcement. In recent weeks, Sylla has surfaced as the most likely option to join Marco Baroni’s backline.

Lazio Close in on Abakar Sylla

According to Italian journalist Damiano Er Faina, Lazio are now ‘very close’ to striking a deal with Strasbourg for Sylla’s transfer. La Lazio Siamo Noi adds that the Ivory Coast international would arrive on loan with an option to buy set at €15 million. Since he’s only 22, the centre-back won’t require a spot on the club’s already congested Serie A senior list.

Refreshing the Backline

Sylla’s arrival would add some much-needed young blood to Lazio’s ageing defensive department, as Mario Gila (24) is the only centre-back who’s on the right side of 30. Baroni’s other options are Patric (31), Samuel Gigot (31) and Alessio Romagnoli (30).

Who is Abakar Sylla

The Ivorian started his career in his home country with SO Armee before being poached by Club Brugge in 2021. The Belgians then made a substantial profit by selling him to Strasbourg in 2023 for €20 million. However, Sylla has seen his playing time reduced as of late, with his manager Liam Rosenior favoring the partnership of Mamadou Sarr and Ismael Doukoure