According to recent reports, AFC Bournemouth has set its sights on Lazio defender Mario Gila as a potential replacement for Dean Huijsen, following the latter`s lucrative €59.5 million transfer to Real Madrid.
The Premier League club made a substantial profit on Huijsen, having acquired him from Juventus just a year ago for €20 million plus a percentage of any future transfer fee. Now, as they seek to fill the void left by Huijsen`s departure, Bournemouth appears to be once again looking towards Serie A for talent.
Mario Gila, who will turn 25 in August, is a product of Real Madrid`s youth academy. He made the move to Lazio in 2022 for a fee of €6 million. This season, Gila has made 42 appearances across all competitions for Lazio, including Serie A, Europa League, and Coppa Italia matches, scoring two goals in the process.
The Spanish defender`s current contract with Lazio runs until June 2027. However, there have been previous reports suggesting he could be tempted to return to Real Madrid. Additionally, other top clubs, including Manchester City, have reportedly shown interest in Gila in recent months.
Gila`s rising profile was further evidenced by his call-up to the Spanish national team in March, alongside Huijsen. This international recognition, combined with his solid performances for Lazio, has likely contributed to Bournemouth`s interest in the player.
As Bournemouth looks to strengthen its defensive options following Huijsen`s departure, Gila could prove to be an attractive option. The potential move would not only provide Bournemouth with a talented defender but also offer Gila an opportunity to test himself in the Premier League.