Man City eye Lazio’s Gila as deal could include Argentine rising star | OneFootball

Manchester City have reportedly become the latest club to join the race for Lazio’s Mario Gila, and they could try to tempt the Biancocelesti into negotiations by including 19-year-old Claudio Echeverri in a potential deal.

The centre-back has just received his first-ever call-up to Spain’s national team, joining Luis de la Fuente’s squad on international duty to replace the injured Pau Cubarsi, although he ultimately didn’t make his debut for La Roja.

ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 15: Mario Gila of SS Lazio prior the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Napoli at Stadio Olimpico on February 15, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

A regular in Marco Baroni’s starting XI this season, Gila has emerged as one of Serie A’s most reliable central defenders, attracting attention from top European clubs, including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, and Inter.

Man City pursue Gila transfer from Lazio, with Argentine prospect involved

However, La Gazzetta dello Sport reported that Echeverri was recently seen at a restaurant near Formello, Lazio’s training camp, suggesting he could play a role in negotiations between Lazio and Manchester City for Gila.

The young attacking midfielder has yet to debut for the Premier League giants, who signed him from River Plate in January 2024 but loaned him back for the following year to secure one of Argentina’s rising stars before their competitors.

AVELLANEDA, ARGENTINA – DECEMBER 14: Claudio Echeverri of River Plate drives the ball during a Liga Profesional 2024 match between Racing Club and River Plate at Presidente Peron Stadium on December 14, 2024 in Avellaneda, Argentina. (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)

Before making the leap to English football, though, Manchester City may consider loaning Echeverri to a club where he can gain regular playing time, with Lazio emerging as a potential destination—especially if the move helps pave the way for the signing of Gila, whom the Serie A side values at around €50m.