Chelsea Target Coy on Lazio Contract Renewal: 'I’ll Think About It'

Lazio defender Mario Gila is leaving the door open to all possibilities amidst interest from several Premier League giants.

The Spaniard continues to cement his role as one of the finest centre-backs in Serie A with every fresh outing. Following his Man-of-the-Match display against Atalanta last week, the 25-year-old helped the Biancocelesti collect another clean sheet this weekend, playing an instrumental role at the back in the 1-0 victory over Juventus.

Gila had a scary moment when Francisco Conceicao went to the ground inside Lazio’s box, claiming that the defender fouled him, but the match official waved play on, and the VAR was happy with the call. In his post-match press conference (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), the Real Madrid youth product insisted it wasn’t a penalty, while arguing that Weston McKennie should have received a second yellow card.

My reaction was completely natural. Enough, I won’t say anything else (laughs). I won’t even talk about McKennie’s red card.

The win was incredibly important. It gives us continuity from our positive performance in Bergamo, where we drew in a very difficult match. We’re still in a state of emergency, but getting such a crucial result gives us a lot of determination and positivity.

Gila remains one of the club’s lowest earners, as Lazio have yet to adjust his salary. The two parties were working on a new contract, but their plans were thwarted by the transfer ban. Therefore, the player admits that his future is up in the air, as he’s no longer certain he’d pen a renewal.

It’s something I’ll have to think about. I’m happy at Lazio, my contract expires in 2027 and there’s still some time left. It’s something I’ll have to discuss with my agents too.

I have to say that I’ve proven who I am as a player. There are advantages and disadvantages for running on an expiring. If they offer me a new salary, I’ll think about it. I care a lot about Lazio, but we have to wait a bit.

In recent weeks, reports in Italy and England claimed that several Premier League clubs are interested in acquiring Gila’s services, including Chelsea, Brighton and Tottenham.

While the Barcelona native hasn’t been too impressed with Lazio’s hierarchy, he at least enjoys working under Maurizio Sarri.

Sarri gives me so much, and helps me improve, especially defensively. I feel comfortable with him, and more confident overall. I’m very happy to play under his tutelage. I still have a long way to go, as I’m still young and have great potential, so I can still grow.