Inter Milan has made a bold move in the transfer market, proposing a swap deal to Lazio involving midfielder Kristjan Asllani in exchange for Nicolò Rovella. The offer also included significant financial compensation, but Lazio`s owner Claudio Lotito has initially turned it down. However, sources suggest that Inter is likely to return with an improved offer.
Rovella, 23, has been on loan at Lazio from Juventus for the past two seasons. The Rome-based club is set to make his move permanent for €17 million. The young midfielder has impressed during his time at Lazio, providing six assists in 74 appearances. Reports indicate that once Rovella`s contract is finalized in July, it will include a €50 million release clause.
Inter`s interest in Rovella comes as part of their summer reinforcement plans. The club is reportedly open to negotiations regarding both Asllani and Davide Frattesi. This transfer activity is seen as part of Inter`s strategy to convince manager Simone Inzaghi to reject a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal.
The competition for Rovella`s signature is fierce, with Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Manchester City all expressing interest. Lazio has begun negotiations to extend Rovella`s contract until 2030, offering a salary increase to ward off potential suitors.
Despite the attention from top clubs, Rovella has expressed his desire to remain at Lazio. In a recent interview, he stated, “I`m in love with Lazio. I have a truly special bond with the club. The fans are incredible, the best in the world. I want to stay here forever. I didn`t come here to explode and then move on to win trophies with other clubs. I`m flattered that big clubs are interested in me, but I`m already at a big club. I have a five-year contract and I`m happy here. This club is evolving and has a project that involves me. I hope to win a lot here and bring Lazio back to the top. I want to lift more than one cup. This is my mission.”
As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on Inter`s next move and Lazio`s response to their pursuit of Rovella.