Bologna have officially announced the acquisition of defender Nicolò Casale from Lazio on a temporary basis until June 2025. The deal includes an option for a permanent transfer and an obligation to buy based on certain conditions being met.
Casale, a right-footed center-back known for his imposing stature and physicality, joins Bologna after three consistent seasons in Serie A. His recent experiences include debuts in continental competitions such as the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League with Lazio, as well as a call-up to the Italian national team under manager Luciano Spalletti.
Developed in Verona’s youth system, Casale gained valuable experience through loan spells at Perugia, Prato, and Sudtirol before a pivotal encounter with coach Alessio Dionisi at Venezia in Serie B. Under Dionisi’s guidance, Casale refined his ball-playing skills, showcasing personality, positional awareness, and elegance in his defensive interventions.
Dionisi brought Casale to Empoli in the summer of 2020, where the defender played a crucial role in the team’s triumphant campaign, securing promotion to Serie A with 73 points and one of the league’s best defensive records.
Casale’s progression continued with Hellas Verona, where he made his Serie A debut in August 2021. Under Igor Tudor’s management, Verona finished an impressive 9th, with Casale emerging as one of the squad’s standout performers and the second most-used player, primarily as a central defender in a back three.
His performances caught the eye of Lazio, where he became a key figure under Maurizio Sarri, forming a formidable partnership with Alessio Romagnoli. Casale leaves Lazio after 63 total appearances across all competitions.
Bologna’s statement concludes: “From August 2024, he joins the Rossoblù,” signaling the club’s excitement about their new defensive acquisition.
