Lazio full-back Nuno Tavares stirred some controversy with his latest social media move, while Porto are obeserving his situation closely.
The Background
The 26-year-old has been playing his football in Rome since making the move from Arsenal in the summer of 2024. The Portuguese international enjoyed a stellar start to his Lazio stint, before being hampered by injuries. Last season, he was omitted from Maurizio Sarri’s starting lineup after making costly blunders, only to be restored later in the campaign.
Nuno Tavares Loses Starting Berth at Lazio?
This summer, the Biancocelesti acquired the services of Alfonso Pedraza on a free transfer. The 30-year-old Spaniard has done enough in pre-season to convince Gennaro Gattuso to grant him a starting role, especially with Tavares struggling with another muscle injury. Therefore, many feel this is the right time for the club to cash in on the Lisbon native.
Tavares Leaves No Trace of Lazio
As noted by several sources, including La Lazio Siamo Noi, Tavares has deleted every post related to Lazio on his Instagram account. Many observers believe this could be a sign of dissatisfaction with his status at the club, or a come-and-get-me plea to his suitors.
Porto Still Eyeing a Move for Tavares
As it happens, Italian football journalist Matteo Moretto is reporting Porto’s interest in the wantaway full-back. The Portuguese giants have already been linked with the player on a few occasions earlier in the summer. Moreover, recent rumours claimed Lazio could swap him with AC Milan defender Fikayo Tomori, but the two clubs have yet to embark on serious talks.
Lazio Must Sell Tavares or Luca Pellegrini
The Biancocelesti will be expected to offload either Tavares or Luca Pellegrini before the end of the summer, as they cannot afford to keep three left-backs in the squad, especially after failing to qualify for Europe.
The Italian was considered the more likely choice, as his contract will expire next year, but the Portuguese’s exit could be more financially rewarding, with his market value estimated at €15-20 million, although Arsenal would receive a 35% sell-on fee.