Lazio Join Hull City & Ipswich Town in the Race for Czech Defender

Lazio Join Hull City & Ipswich Town in the Race for Czech Defender Lazio have reportedly added another name to their defensive shortlist, as they’re now showing interest in Slavia Prague star Stepan Chaloupek. Lazio’s Defensive Plans Despite signing Danilho Doekhi on a free transfer last month, the Biancocelesti still need at least one other new centre-back to join the Dutchman and Oliver Provstgaard, as Alessio Romagnoli could still follow Mario Gila to the exit door, whereas Patric and Samuel Gigot continue to struggle with fitness. Angelo Fabiani and Co. have already missed out on a couple of defensive targets in Sergi Dominguez and Noah Markmann. In recent days, Standard Liege’s Ibe Hautekiet emerged as the new primary target to bolster the backline, while Ajax wantaway Josip Sutalo has also been mentioned as an alternative solution. Lazio Submit an Offer for Stepan Chaloupek According to La Lazio Siamo Noi, the Aquile have made an offer for Chaloupek, which is currently being studied by Sparta Prague. The 23-year-old was said to be a target for newly promoted Premier League clubs Ipswich Town and Hull City, in addition to Benfica. Chaloupek’s Career Path, Market Value & Stats Chaloupek began his career at his hometown club of Mezibori before moving to Teplice at the age of 12. After rising through the club’s ranks, he became a member of the senior squad in 2022. Two years later, the defender was poached by the Czech champions, Slavia Praga, who only paid €1 million for his services. Fast forward to 2026, Transfermarkt estimates the 23-year-old’s current value at €10 million following a meteoric rise last season. The young defender proved his worth in domestic competitions, as well as in the Champions League. All in all, he made 42 appearances in all competitions last term, and in addition to his defensive prowess, he collected an impressive attacking tally of nine goals and five assists. Chaloupek Made a Single World Cup Appearance Chaloupek was part of the Czech Republic’s World Cup squad earlier this summer. But after featuring as a starter in the 1-2 defeat to South Korea on the opening day of the tournament, he was dropped from the lineup for the next two games against South Africa and Mexico. His national team ended the group stage with a single goal and a disappointing exit.