Lazio Plotting Onslaught for Young Levante Hero

Lazio have reportedly added Levante’s gigantic striker Carlos Espi to their ever-growing attacking shortlist.

Lazio Searching for a New Striker

During his unveiling, new Lazio head coach Gennaro Gattuso insisted that recruiting a new centre-forward is one of the club’s main priorities this summer, especially following last season’s abysmal performances in front of goal.

In recent weeks, the Aquile have identified Fiorentina’s Roberto Piccoli, Sassuolo’s Andrea Pinamonti, and Fluminense’s John Kennedy as potential candidates for the role, but they haven’t been able to reach an agreement with any of the aforementioned clubs.

Lazio Eyeing a Move For Carlos Espi

According to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Lazio are interested in Espi, who played an instrumental role in Levante’s survival last season. The Italian capital side has yet to open talks with their Spanish counterpart, but they could be plotting a move for the young Spaniard, who is also tracked by Bologna and Premier League clubs.

How Espi Saved Levante from Relegation

The 20-year-old is a youth product of Levante, who was promoted to the first team in 2024, when the club was in the second division. Last season, the Valencians were struggling among LaLiga clubs and appeared destined for an immediate relegation. However, Espi stepped up in the final months of the campaign, scoring six goals in four matches, helping the club finish 16th in the league.

All in all, the striker netted 11 times in 25 LaLiga appearances. Thanks to late-season exploits, Espi’s market value soared from €2.5 million to €20 million over the last four months, as estimated by Transfermarkt. The 194-cm striker is tied to a contract valid until June 2028, and it includes a €25 million release clause.

Can Lazio Afford Espi?

Needless to say, Lazio could struggle to match these figures, especially after being restricted to a net-zero transfer market, but it remains to be seen if Angelo Fabiani can find a creative formula to bring the young forward to Rome.