Yahoo Sports Lazio Facing Competition From Leicester City for Young Argentine Who Wants To Play in Europe
Lazio transfer target Valentin Gomez expressed his desire to join a European club, but Leicester City are also interested in his services.
The Background
The 21-year-old is a Velez Sarsfield youth product who has now cemented himself as a protagonist at the back for the Argentine club, making 43 appearances across all competitions this season. The youngster’s rise to prominence caught the attention of some of the biggest clubs in the country, namely Boca Juniors and River Plate who are reportedly both keen to sign him.
European Aspirations
Nevertheless, a recent report from Argentina claimed that Lazio may have the upper hand in the race thanks to their financial power which can splash the two Buenos Aires rivals out of the water. Moreover, the player himself has now admitted he’d like to play his football in Europe in his post-match interview following Sarsfield’s last game of the season (via La Lazio Siamo Noi).
First of all, I’ll go on vacation, I think I deserve one since I’ve played so many games this year. Then I’ll see what decision to make for the rest of my career. The truth is that I’d like to play in Europe and grow there, we’ll see if there’s a club willing to buy me.
Leicester to Compete with Lazio for Valentin Gomez
Based on recent reports, there are certainly several clubs willing to swoop for the young centre-back. According to The Sun, Leicester have identified Gomez as the right profile to reinforce Ruud van Nistelrooy’s defensive department in their bid to remain in the Premier League and avoid an immediate return to the Championship.
The English report also mentioned Crystal Palace Wolves, Marseille and Stuttgart as possible suitors. The Argentina U20 starlet’s contract with Sarsfield is valid until December 2026 and Transfermarkt estimates his value at €10 million.
