Latest Developments
- Man City keen to sign Lazio's Mario Gila.
- The Citizens willing to use Claudio Echeverri as part of the deal.
- Man City learn Lazio's asking price for Gila.
Whisper+ Analysis
Authenticity (3.5/5): Man City to use Echeverri in Gila deal
Man City are understood to be open to using Echeverri as a makeweight in their pursuit of Lazio defender Mario Gila.
According to Italian outlet Calcio Mercato, Man City could send Echeverri on loan to Lazio to help boost their chances of completing a permanent transfer for Gila. Echeverri agreed to join the Citizens in January 2024, before he stayed on loan at River Plate for another year.
Value (3.5/5): Lazio set Gila asking price
Gila is under contract until the summer of 2027, although there seems little chance that he will sign an extension with his current employers. As a result, Lazio could look to cash in when the transfer window opens this summer.
The Serie A side are expected to demand €50m (£42m) to sanction Gila's departure at the end of the season. However, Real Madrid would receive 50% of any sale as part of the agreement that saw Gila join Lazio in 2022.
Suitability (4/5): Ball-playing centre-back
Gila would suit Pep Guardiola's philosophy of protecting possession, with the Lazio man among the top 10 for the highest pass completion in Serie A this season. Crucially, he is also a strong defender, demonstrated by the fact he has tackled 30 dribblers in the Italian top flight this term – only two players have tackled more, as per FBref.
Upgrade (2.5/5): Competition for places
Gila would bolster Man City's defensive options, which have been hit by several injuries this term. However, when everyone is fit, Gila would face intense competition for places, especially as the Citizens recruited Abdulkodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis in January. Guardiola can also call upon John Stones, Ruben Dias, Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake.
Logic (3.5/5): Chance to play for Guardiola
The 24-year-old could be enticed by the chance to work with one of the best managers in football. The centre-back may also be open to the possibility of testing himself in the Premier League after spending three years in Italy.
With that said, the Spaniard could be presented with other opportunities by the likes of Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, Paris Saint-Germain and his former club Real Madrid.
Whisper+ Verdict: 17/25
Gila feels like a player who would suit Guardiola's philosophy and style of play. However, he may have to accept the risk that he would not be a guaranteed starter at the Etihad Stadium.
