Lazio And Torino's Tug-Of-War For Chelsea's Casadei Continues

Like any good soap opera, this transfer saga unfolds in episodes. Lazio believed they had done everything necessary to secure Chelsea’s Cesare Casadei, accommodating both the English club and the player’s representatives. However, Torino intensified their efforts yesterday, increasing their offer and leveraging a dispute between Lazio president Claudio Lotito and Casadei’s agents regarding salary terms. At that moment, Torino seemed to have the upper hand and was poised to finalize the deal.

Despite this setback, Lazio swiftly reopened talks with the intermediaries handling the negotiations and managed to smooth over tensions, restoring harmony between all parties. Now, Lazio is simply waiting for Chelsea to send the signed documents and officially seal the deal. However, Torino remains in the race, still trying to sway both the Blues and the player. Casadei, however, has already expressed his preference for Lazio and made it clear to his representatives.

Now, the ball is in Chelsea’s court as they decide which offer to accept. Lazio has set a deadline for tomorrow—if they receive no response from London, they will shift their focus to an alternative target. Their main backup option is Giovanni Fabbian, another 2003-born talent. A potential deal with Bologna could involve a loan swap, sending Fabbian to Lazio and Loum Tchaouna to Emilia. However, Lazio’s sporting director is hesitant to part with the French winger.

If Lazio successfully secures Casadei, they will also push to sign Abakar Sylla, who shares the same agents as the Chelsea midfielder. But for now, Lazio’s top priority remains Casadei, with Torino still lurking in the background.