Maurizio Sarri is insisting that Lazio complete a deal to sign Chelsea defender Emerson Palmieri this summer, according to reports.
Chelsea reached an agreement with Inter Milan on Wednesday over a loan move for Romelu Lukaku, but it is looking likely that the Blues’ transfer activity in Italy is not over yet.
Thomas Tuchel is set to welcome back Ben Chilwell into the side after his ACL surgery last year, and with Marcos Alonso heavily linked with a transfer to Barcelona this summer, Emerson is likely to be Chilwell's back-up next season, as it stands.
But a back-up role could mean that he searches elsewhere for the opportunity of playing consistent first team football next term, and at the current time, Italy looks to be the most favourable option.
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As reported by Corriere dello Sport, former Blues boss Sarri is very keen on a reunion with the two-time European champion.
He is claimed to believe that it is of high importance that the Italian outfit make a move for a leading individual of international quality, pointing towards a player of a high calibre such as Emerson.
The left-back will return to Cobham next month for pre-season after Lyon decided not to activate the option to buy clause in his loan deal.
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There have also been previous links about a potential move to Juventus.
Lazio are hoping to acquire him on loan for the season, with an option to buy next summer.
Last year, the deal with Lyon saw an agreement of €15 million, so a similar deal could be seen this summer should Chelsea be willing to part ways with the left-back.
Lazio may look to able to get a cut price though, as Emerson’s contract is set to run out in 2024 unless Chelsea, surprisingly, offer him an extension.
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One factor that the player would have to take into account is that, similarly to his situation in Lyon last season, he would certainly have to take a pay cut to join Lazio.
This provides a dilemma for Emerson, with him having to weigh up the decision of consistent first team football, or fighting for a spot at Chelsea.
He did confirm earlier this month while on international duty that his future hadn’t been discussed with Tuchel as of yet.
"I didn’t speak with (Tuchel) just yet,” he said.
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“I have a contract with Chelsea. I played there for three seasons and I have a lot of friends there.
“If I come back, I’ll be happy. It’s a good place and club for me. Let’s see what can happen.”
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Maurizio Sarri, Chelsea, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Football, Lazio