Bournemouth Seize Kerkez Deal, Lazio Revert To Pellegrini

Milos Kerkez had been pursued by Lazio for a considerable period, and he was initially the top priority for Claudio Lotito. However, the negotiations with AZ Alkmaar dragged on, and Lazio failed to make the crucial move of meeting the 15 million price tag. Instead, they remained fixed at 12 million, despite having an agreement in place with the player. This approach has dampened the prospects of the transfer, opening the door for other interested parties to enter the fray.

Bournemouth seizes the opportunity in this situation, capitalizing on Lazio's unwavering stance of refusing to budge from their 12 million offer. The English club is prepared to meet the desired 15 million, satisfying both the Dutch club and the player who is no longer willing to wait.

The strategy of refraining from increasing the offer, which carries the potential of negatively impacting the market in Lazio, does not seem to be an optimal approach. One reason for this is the minimal difference of only 3 Million between the supply and demand. True, Lazio is investing heavily to bring Taty Castellanos to Formello, but the over 40 million in the Milinkovic deal was intended to be used to enhance Lazio. 

Second, the departure of Kerkez compels Lazio to rely on Luca Pellegrini, who was already on loan to Lazio last season and, despite his exceptional qualities, remains a temporary transfer due to the challenges associated with the formula, particularly in terms of future planning. Above all, a backup plan is still in place. Pellegrini's negotiations appear to be progressing, and he appears to be the next addition to Lazio.

Pellegrini has made no secret of his desire to return to Lazio, where he spent the final six months of the season. After a standstill in which other teams appeared to have entered, the situation appears to have unblocked: according to Nicolò Schira, the two clubs are close to finalizing an agreement for the loan of the full-back with the option to buy for 8 million euros.