Paris Saint-Germain have taken the lead in the race to sign Mario Gila from Lazio, having made a better offer for the defender than Chelsea.
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PSG are interested in Mario GilaGila is French side's first choiceCould reject offers from EnglandFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
The recently crowned European champions are looking to add to their defensive line and have targeted the Lazio defender. According to Spanish outlet , PSG have made a very tempting offer to Italian club as Luis Enrique targets his first signing of the summer transfer window.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportTHE BIGGER PICTURE
The PSG coach feels that the defence could be the weak spot of the side and looks to make additions. While Marquinhos and Pacho are the starting centre-backs, the backup cast of Lucas Hernandez, Presnel Kimpembe and Lucas Beraldo don't give much assurances to the Spanish coach. Coming off the back of a career-making campaign in Italy, Gila seems to be PSG's first choice to strengthen the back line.
The 24-year-old, who has been handed his maiden call-up for the Spain national team, is being valued at €40 million (£34m/$46m) by Lazio after buying him from Real Madrid for €6m (£5m/$7m). While he has suitors from the Premier League, with Chelsea and Bournemouth said to be after him, the offer from PSG and a chance to work with compatriot Luis Enrique could tip the balance.
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Madrid maintain a 50 per cent sell-on clause for Gila which means that half of the transfer fee will go to the Spanish club in event of a sale. If PSG do match Lazio's valuation, then €20m (£17m/$23m) of the proceedings will go to Madrid.
Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR PSG AND GILA ?
Having finished the campaign with Lazio in May, Gila will be looking to sort out his future amid interest from across Europe. PSG may hope to have his signing wrapped up before they take on Atletico Madrid in the Club World Cup on June 16.
