Lazio have agreed to sign Sergio Rico as Watford target Thomas Strakosha enters talks to sign for Premier League giants Newcastle United, as reported by Il Messaggero.
With regards to signing a goalkeeper this summer, it seems that the upwardly-mobile Magpies are playing things by ear. A new shot-stopper is not Eddie Howe’s top priority – and nor should it be – but if an opportunity arises, Newcastle will act accordingly.
Strakosha’s expiring contract represents such an opportunity.
The Greek-born Albania international is one of the finest glovesmen in Serie A, even if he does have a penchant for unforced errors.
Whether Strakosha would represent a considerable upgrade on Martin Dubravka – Newcastle’s long-serving number one – is up for debate. But, with the one-time West Ham and Southampton target available for free come July 1, it appears that Newcastle are ready to take a punt.
Newcastle’s new goalkeeper?
According to La Lazio Siamo Noi, the Tynesiders recently entered talks with Strakosha. The 27-year-old is reportedly ‘very keen’ on a move to Watford, though one suspects his opinion may have changed with Roy Hodgson’s side hanging onto the relegation trapdoor with the very end of their fingernails.
The Hornets have already signed one new goalkeeper ahead of the summer window already, fighting off Crystal Palace and Southampton for £6 million Maduka Okoye.
As for Lazio, well Maurizio Sarri and director Igli Tare are putting plans in place to ensure that the Biancocolesti are not left in the lurch by Strakosha’s departure. Tare has already reached an agreement with Sergio Rico’s representatives.
The Paris Saint-Germain owned ‘keeper, formerly of Fulham and Sevilla, is available for a bargain £4 million and is therefore far cheaper than Lazio’s other target, Atalanta youngster Marco Carnesecchi.
I like how they play in the Premier League,” Strakosha told The Guardian last year.
“They play so fast, there are so many shots and you have so much work to do. I enjoy doing a lot of work, as it lets me show my best and gets my adrenaline up.
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“I believe the Premier League has the best football. They have crazy moments in the Premier League, and the fans are so close to the pitch. It is unbelievable. You would want to play two games a day due to the unbelievable feeling.
“It’s everyone’s dream to play in the Premier League.”
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