Al-Sadd drag their heels as Lazio's Romagnoli deal stalls
Alessio Romagnoli's future remains up in the air as Al-Sadd struggle to finalise a move for the Lazio defender.
Al-Sadd have returned with fresh payment terms for the €3m they have offered Lazio, but Claudio Lotito has responded with a counter-proposal, leaving both parties awaiting the next move. The signals had not been especially encouraging as recently as 48 hours ago, but the coming hours could prove decisive.
Al-Sadd's financial constraints are said to be part of the hold-up in their pursuit of Romagnoli. The Qatari club are grappling with financial constraints that have complicated their pursuit.
Romagnoli is holding out for a switch abroad, which remains his priority. The defender is said to be attracted by the substantial financial package on offer from Al-Sadd, as well as a wish to leave Italy out of respect for the Lazio support.
For Romagnoli, the situation is complex, with his desire to move abroad weighing against the emotional ties he has with the Lazio fanbase. The defender saluted the Lazio support with a video message during the mass protest against the club's ownership on 2 July.
Atalanta and Sarri wait in the wings for Romagnoli
Atalanta are ready to pounce should the Al-Sadd deal collapse. The Bergamo side are boosted by the presence of Maurizio Sarri, who worked with Romagnoli at Lazio and considers him a priority target.
Sarri has already made personal contact with Romagnoli, and the defender could yet remain in Serie A after all. The picture would change quickly if the Al-Sadd deal falls through, and Romagnoli would then begin to weigh the alternatives already on the table.
For now, all eyes are on Doha and whether Al-Sadd can meet Lotito's terms. If they cannot, Sarri and Atalanta are poised to capitalise on a defender who could yet remain in Serie A after all.
Romagnoli's future remains uncertain, and the coming hours will be crucial in determining the outcome of the Al-Sadd deal. If Al-Sadd cannot meet Lotito's terms, the situation will change quickly, and Romagnoli will begin to weigh the alternatives already on the table.
Source: Yahoo Sports