After weeks of speculation and an apparent farewell, the Biancocelesti issue an official statement confirming the defender will stay
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In a dramatic late twist to Lazio’s January transfer window, the club has officially taken Alessio Romagnoli off the market. Just days after the defender appeared on the verge of leaving Rome — and even bid an emotional farewell to supporters — Lazio released a statement confirming their intention to keep him.
The announcement came directly from the club, which sought to clarify Romagnoli’s status amid growing rumors of an imminent move to Qatar. According to Lazio, the center-back was never formally placed on the transfer list and remains a central figure in the sporting project.
“Lazio reiterates that Alessio Romagnoli has never been put on the market and confirms that the defender will remain a Biancoceleste player,” the club said in its official note. “Despite several approaches received in recent weeks, the club’s position is firm: Romagnoli is considered a key element of the project, both technically and in terms of leadership and human values within the squad.”
The statement marks a sharp reversal from the narrative that had dominated the past week. Following Lazio’s goalless draw away at Lecce, Romagnoli had appeared visibly emotional while greeting fans, throwing his jersey into the stands in what many interpreted as a goodbye. At that stage, the defender seemed ready to accept a lucrative offer from Al Sadd, coached by Roberto Mancini, which would have earned him €18 million over three years.
Romagnoli, whose contract with Lazio runs until June 2027, had been waiting for months for clarity on a potential renewal. Al Sadd were also reportedly prepared to offer Lazio a fee in the region of €8.5 million — an option the club has now definitively rejected.
Head coach Maurizio Sarri has consistently viewed Romagnoli as untouchable, considering him a cornerstone of Lazio’s defensive structure. The club’s decision aligns with Sarri’s stance and comes after a period of intense tension between sporting priorities, financial considerations, and fan sentiment.
Whether this move represents a true long-term commitment or a temporary truce in a turbulent situation remains to be seen. For now, however, Lazio’s message is clear: Alessio Romagnoli is staying in Rome.
