Our man over at The Boy Hotspur’s Substack understands that Tottenham are exploring a move for Lazio’s Spanish centre-back Mario Gila as we look to strengthen their backline. The 25-year-old is seen as a good tactical fit for Thomas Frank’s system, with his consistent displays in Serie A and European experience making him an attractive option for Premier League sides.
Added to Thomas Frank’s shortlist
Tottenham have added Gila to their January shortlist as a potential reinforcement for their defence under manager Thomas Frank. This comes amid a broader Serie A scouting push by the club. The move is still in the early stages, with no official bid reported yet.
Lazio value Gila at around €45-50 million, and his contract runs until summer 2027, giving the Italian club a strong negotiating position. He’s seen as a versatile defender who can play from the back. Gila has been a key part of Lazio’s defence, including a standout performance in their recent unbeaten run. Coach Maurizio Sarri has publicly praised his development, noting he blocked a potential loan to build his tactical awareness.
Spurs aren’t alone in the race. Crystal Palace, Brighton and Everton are also keeping close tabs on Gila. Brighton and Bournemouth reportedly made contact with the player’s camp during the summer, considering him seriously as part of their search for a new centre-back.
How expensive might Gila be?
Lazio, however, are in no rush to sell. With Gila under contract until 2027, the Italian club are reluctant to break up their defensive setup mid-season. Sources suggest they would only consider offers in the region of €45–50 million.
As Premier League clubs continue to search for defensive reinforcements, this transfer battle could heat up quickly. Tottenham are expected to make a formal approach in January, but any move will depend on how rival clubs position themselves.
Gila is a high-quality, progressive defender who’s excelling in a competitive league and drawing top-club eyes, but elite status (think world-class consistency at a Champions League contender) will depend on a big transfer and sustained output. He’s closer to “very good” than “elite” right now, with the trajectory pointing upward.