Lazio Prepare For Tavares Exit As Pedraza And Aaron Martin Enter The Frame

Lazio are keeping their cards close to their chest over the future of Nuno Tavares, but behind the scenes the club is already preparing for a possible separation. With the January transfer window approaching and the transfer ban now lifted, the Biancoceleste have begun sounding out alternative options on the left flank, a clear sign that changes could be imminent.

The relationship between Tavares and Maurizio Sarri has never truly taken off. While the Portuguese full back remains a powerful attacking outlet, his defensive limitations have repeatedly surfaced in Sarri’s 4 3 3 system. The coach has not hidden his frustration, believing the balance of the team suffers when defensive reliability is sacrificed for forward thrust.

That frustration was once again evident earlier this month during the 1 1 draw against Bologna, when a defensive lapse from Tavares allowed the equaliser before half time. Sarri reacted decisively, withdrawing the 25 year old and confirming the sense that the player currently sits behind Luca Pellegrini in the hierarchy.

As a result, Lazio are actively studying replacements. One name gaining momentum is Alfonso Pedraza, currently at Villarreal. According to Alfredo Pedulla, contacts have already been made with the 29 year old defender, whose contract expires at the end of the season. Pedraza is viewed as a more tactically disciplined option, capable of guaranteeing defensive stability, and he also earned a senior cap for Spain in October 2023.

Another profile under consideration is Aaron Martin of Genoa, a player Lazio had already monitored last summer before financial restrictions halted any concrete move. His familiarity with Serie A makes him an attractive and potentially low risk solution.

While Lazio evaluate their options, Tavares is also attracting interest elsewhere. The Saudi Pro League remains a concrete possibility, with Al-Ittihad leading the chase. The club is coached by his compatriot Sergio Conceicao, and talks are reportedly underway to reach a personal agreement before opening negotiations with Lazio.

For now, no final decision has been announced, but the direction appears clear. Lazio are planning for life after Tavares, seeking a more reliable defensive profile to fit Sarri’s ideas, while the Portuguese full back seems increasingly destined for a new chapter away from Rome.