Everton have moved on from Mauro Icardi. The player has now also been rejected by Lazio manager Gennaro Gattuso, who shares the same opinion at David Moyes.
Over the past few days, it has been clear that the Toffees have been handed a chance to sign the free agent. It also became evident that David Moyes’ side haven’t moved to proceed with the signing, allowing others the chance to move.
This led to Lazio entering the race for his signature once again. They re-initiated contact, after having been rejected in the summer transfer window.
Now, Icardi is left to look for another club once again.
Gattuso shares Toffees’ opinion
Today’s Corriere dello Sport has updates about the Argentine, noting that Lazio’s move hinged largely on Rino Gattuso’s opinion.
Everton and another Premier League club, unnamed for now, have also walked away. Gattuso has vetoed the transfer, as he is much more focused on another summer arrival in Andrea Pinamonti.
The Italian is seen as the only true number nine in the squad. Even beyond tactics, Gattuso doesn’t have a positive opinion about Icardi. He believes the Lazio squad is in a very good headspace, having not lost a single game this season.
He feels signing Icardi would be a risk, considering his reputation. This is a key reason why the chance has been passed on, with the deal seen as something which can make things worse at the club.
Everton also have a good squad camaraderie at the moment. David Moyes would not want to harm that.
Sensible choice made
Gattuso’s decision perhaps validates Everton’s stance on the deal further. The two clubs could do with another attacking addition but the 33-year-old brings too much baggage with him.
He would also command a high wage, especially as his demands weren’t exactly low in Turkey. However, injuries have piled up and he may not offer enough compared to his contract size.
