Credit: Imago

Daniel Davis

Fri 20 March 2026 6:00, UK

Aston Villa want to sign Lazio defender Mario Gila, but would have to stump up £25million.

Gila has attracted interest from a host of elite clubs after a series of impressive performances this season, and Villa are the latest to have joined the race.

That is according to Defensa Central, who have claimed that Villa Park figures are keeping a keen eye on his situation. No formal talks have taken place at this stage, however.

The in-demand centre-back moved to the Stadio Olimpico in July 2022, penning a contract until 2027, and Lazio are open to a sale at the end of the campaign.

With a reasonable price tag of £25.8million mooted, Villa look primed to strike.

Real Madrid could complicate Mario Gila transfer

But Villa’s pursuit is set to be anything but plain sailing.

Indeed, Real Madrid still hold 50 per cent of Gila’s rights, having shipped him out to Lazio almost four years ago.

That means the Spanish side stands to make around £12.9m in the event of a sale.

Lazio will be determined to land a sizeable windfall from the 25-year-old, and they could therefore be tempted to increase their asking price in an attempt to soften the financial blow.

The same publication has shed light on the efforts of Gila’s representatives to negotiate a contract renewal in Rome, but so far, there has been no meaningful progress.

As a result, a queue of suitors are ready to swoop, including AC Milan and Inter Milan.

Multiple Premier League sides are also circling.

Worryingly for Villa, Chelsea are said to have been monitoring Gila for “some time”, while Tottenham and Everton have also been linked.

How Villa can fend off competition

Roberto Olabe has already put together his transfer wishlist, but Emery’s ability to spend big will almost certainly hinge on whether the club secures Champions League football.

Finishing in the Premier League top five should theoretically be enough to get them over the line, and with it would come a financial warchest to be used on their transfer business.

In comparison to alternatives at the back, Gila would be a relatively cost-effective buy. He has not reached his peak, which would allow Villa to help shape him into a future stalwart.

No offers have been tabled for the Spaniard just yet, but he is certain to be pondering over his options ahead of a big summer move. Villa will just hope they can win the race.