Ivan Ilic Back On Sarri’s List As Lazio Seek Midfield Reinforcement Amid Transfer Ban Doubts

Lazio could once again turn their attention to Torino’s out-of-favor midfielder Ivan Ilic, as Maurizio Sarri looks to strengthen his squad ahead of the January transfer window if the club’s transfer ban is lifted in time.

When Sarri agreed to continue at the helm last summer, he did so with assurances of reinforcements, particularly in midfield. Yet those plans were abruptly derailed when the FIGC sanction halted Lazio’s movements in the market. President Claudio Lotito, however, remains optimistic that the situation will be resolved before the winter session opens, allowing the Biancoceleste to resume their recruitment drive.

According to Il Messaggero, Sarri has made it clear that at least two or three additions are needed to revitalize the squad, with one signing earmarked as a goal scoring box to box midfielder, a profile that current option Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has yet to fully embody. Lazio had previously explored the signing of Giovanni Fabbiani, but rising costs and competition may complicate that pursuit.

That reality could reopen the door for Ivan Ilic, a player who once fit Sarri’s tactical blueprint. The Serbian, a Manchester City academy graduate, made his name at Hellas Verona under Ivan Juric before following the Croatian tactician to Torino in January 2023. However, Ilic’s progress has since stalled as he has featured in only three Serie A matches, two from the start, falling behind Kristjan Asllani and Cesare Casadei in Marco Baroni’s plans.

Still just 24 years old and tied to Torino until June 2027, Ilic remains a player of untapped potential, a technically gifted midfielder capable of bridging defense and attack, the kind of dynamic engine Lazio’s system has long lacked. If the transfer restrictions are lifted, Sarri’s renewed interest might yet give Ilic the stage he never fully found in Turin.