According to speculations, Leicester City will compete with Premier League winners Manchester City for the signing of Lazio goalkeeper Christos Mandas this summer.
Following Queens Park Rangers’ 4-0 victory against Leeds United three weeks ago, the Foxes earned promotion back to the top division, avoiding the potentially ruinous financial consequences of remaining in the Championship for another season.
Despite a tough conclusion to the season, Enzo Maresca’s side successfully completed their primary goal of returning to the Premier League, winning the title in the process. Unfortunately, Leicester has been charged for violating Profit and Sustainability Rules and faces a possible points deduction beginning next season, placing them at a disadvantage from the start.
Nonetheless, with the certainty that the club will be playing in the top division of English football once more, and the financial benefits that come with it, Leicester City has begun looking at the summer transfer window to strengthen the squad ahead of what could be a difficult return to the Premier League.
Mandas, a Lazio star, is reportedly on the recruitment department’s list. According to Il Corriere dello Sport, via The Laziali, the Foxes have emerged as contenders for the Greek goalkeeper’s signing, but they will face competition from Manchester City, who consider him for their U23s.
The 22-year-old only recently joined Serie A from OFI Crete for an unknown amount, which is said to have been around £770,000. According to Transfermarkt, his current market value is £856,000, which means any suitors will have to pay more than Lazio signed him for at the start of the season.
Writer’s perspective
Despite being a second-choice goalkeeper at the Stadio Olimpico this season, Mandas has made 12 appearances in all competitions for the Biancocelesti, nine in the league and three in the Coppa Italia.
While he may not be Maresca’s first choice goalkeeper, a move to Leicester City would provide him with a better opportunity to play in the Premier League. If he joins Manchester City, Mandas will have to play in the U23s before maybe taking over from Stefan Ortega on the bench a few years later.
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