Lazio are poised to make its first major signing for the upcoming season, with Robin Gosens, the former Inter and Atalanta wing-back currently playing for Union Berlin, set to join the club. The German player has given his approval for the move, and Union Berlin is open to the idea of a loan deal for the winger.
La Gazzetta dello Sport report that the foundations for Biancocelesti’s squad next season are being laid. Sporting director Angelo Fabiani has indicated that while a complete overhaul is not on the cards, there will be significant changes. The first of these changes comes from Germany, with the deal to bring Gosens to Lazio nearing a positive conclusion.
The German international returned to his homeland last summer after six seasons in Italy—four and a half with Atalanta and one and a half with Inter. Although he adapted well to the Bundesliga, his desire to return to Italy grew over the months, catching the attention of several Italian clubs, notably Bologna and Lazio. However, Lazio has pursued this deal with greater determination, bringing the negotiations close to fruition.
Frequent discussions with Gosens’ representatives have led to a proposed agreement that the player seems inclined to accept. At Union Berlin, Gosens earns around €3 million annually, a figure Lazio is willing to match, including bonuses. Negotiations with Union Berlin are still required, but the club has assured Gosens they will respect his wish to return to Italy. Union Berlin paid just over €13 million to Inter for his transfer last summer and might now accept a slightly lower fee, around €10-12 million. A loan with an obligatory purchase option is also on the table.
Gosens’ arrival would address a long-standing issue for Lazio: the absence of a strong left wing-back. Luca Pellegrini’s acquisition did not resolve this gap, and with the arrival of coach Igor Tudor, a versatile wing-back is even more crucial. Currently, Adam Marusic is playing in this role but is more comfortable on the right flank, where he would move back with Gosens’ addition to the left.
Gosens, who turns 30 on July 5, brings a wealth of experience and familiarity with Italian football, ensuring a smooth transition and immediate impact. Known for his relentless work rate and technical skills, Gosens also has a knack for scoring goals, with 7 goals this season (6 in the Bundesliga and 1 in the Champions League). During his four and a half years at Atalanta, he netted 29 goals and scored 5 goals during his time with Inter. In Tudor’s Lazio, he is expected to continue his goal-scoring contributions.
