Thomas Strakosha is increasingly likely to leave Lazio when his contract ends in June after unsatisfactory talks over an extension for the reported Newcastle United transfer target.
That’s according to Calciomercato, who report the goalkeeper seems set to leave Italy this summer for free. The Biancocelesti have held meetings with the Albanian’s representative to discuss a potential new deal. But talks have not returned the Serie A side’s desired goal.
Lazio hoped Strakosha would extend his commitment at the Stadio Olimpico, but sporting director Igli Tare could not agree terms. President Claudio Lotito is now sourcing possible replacements for Maurizio Sarri, who had restored Strakosha as the club’s number one.
Premier League and, above all, Bundesliga outfits have also contacted Strakosha’s camp to offer moves to England and Germany. Several sides are ready to take advantage of the 26-year-old’s contractual situation at Lazio and seal his arrival for free at the end of the term.
Reports by TuttoMercatoWEB last month noted Strakosha was open to signing a new deal with Lazio. But the 18-cap ‘keeper demanded a net €2m-a-year (£32.5k-a/w) wage, plus a €2.5m (£2m) bonus at signing. He also wanted promises he would remain the first-choice.
Sarri had initially favoured Pepe Reina upon taking charge at the Stadio Olimpico last year. He started the Spaniard in Lazio’s opening 15 Serie A games, before awarding Strakosha a match for the first time. The Albanian has since opened 14 of 14 games since December 5.
Newcastle land Strakosha boost with Lazio exit increasingly likely
Strakosha leaving Lazio at the end of his contract becoming increasingly likely may delight Newcastle as they consider goalkeeper transfers. Il Messaggero have previously cited the Magpies as a likely landing spot for the Albanian, should he depart Rome in the summer.
The Toon are still in the market for a new face to play between the sticks, too. Dean Jones claimed last week that Manchester United shot-stopper Dean Henderson is another name on Eddie Howe’s shortlist. They hope a year as David de Gea’s backup will see him leave.
Strakosha in a free transfer may prove very appealing, especially if the Red Devils refuse to do business with Newcastle. The Lazio star – who former Biancocelesti boss Alberto Bollini once dubbed ‘extraordinary’ – has six clean sheets after 14 Serie A games so far this term.
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