Lazio Consider Mandas Exit As Genoa Explore Loan Swap

Christos Mandas could be one of the first names involved in Lazio’s January transfer plans. Genoa have reportedly asked for information regarding the availability of the Greek goalkeeper, who has seen his role significantly reduced since Maurizio Sarri’s return to the bench.

Mandas joined Lazio in the summer of 2023 from OFI Crete and quickly proved his reliability when called upon. During the second half of last season, he even managed to overtake Ivan Provedel in Marco Baroni’s hierarchy, earning a run of starts with composed and convincing performances. That situation changed last summer when Sarri resumed control of the team and immediately restored Provedel as his undisputed first choice.

Since the start of the current campaign, Provedel has started every Serie A match and rediscovered his best form. The Italian goalkeeper has kept eight clean sheets in fifteen league appearances, providing Sarri with the guarantees he was looking for. As a result, Mandas has been limited to a single appearance, the Coppa Italia victory over AC Milan.

For the 24 year old, this lack of continuity is no longer acceptable. Mandas wants regular playing time and believes that a January move would represent the best solution for both himself and the club. Lazio, meanwhile, are preparing for a winter window that will likely require outgoing transfers in order to respect a zero balance policy.

According to La Repubblica, Genoa coach Daniele De Rossi has requested the signing of a new goalkeeper. The Grifone have relied on Nicola Leali since selling Josep Martinez to Inter Milan last summer. While Leali has performed solidly, Genoa’s management believe there is room for improvement, and Mandas is viewed as a profile capable of raising the level between the posts.

Financial considerations could play a decisive role. Lazio may be willing to facilitate Mandas’ departure to generate funds, while Genoa could struggle to afford a significant transfer fee. This has led to alternative solutions being discussed.

Il Messaggero reports that Genoa have proposed a loan swap, with Mandas moving to Liguria and Leali heading to Rome as Provedel’s new deputy. Sarri has already given his approval to this formula, which could allow the deal to be completed quickly if the clubs reach an agreement.

Mandas is keen to relaunch his career with consistent Serie A minutes. A loan move would allow him to increase his value, something that cannot happen from the bench. For Lazio, the operation would help rebalance the squad and provide flexibility ahead of a demanding January market.

As discussions continue, Mandas’ future appears increasingly distant from Formello. Genoa represent a concrete opportunity, and the coming days could bring clarity on one of Lazio’s most likely winter departures