Igor Tudor eyes Reunion with Lazio star

Juventus head coach Igor Tudor is reportedly eager to rekindle his working relationship with Lazio’s dynamic full-back Nuno Tavares. The Portuguese defender’s future in Rome is currently uncertain despite Lazio recently completing a permanent deal with Arsenal.

Tavares made headlines during the first half of the 2024/25 season. And registering a flurry of assists and earning a nomination for the Best Serie A Defender Award. However, recurring injuries derailed his progress in the second half of the campaign, casting doubts over his long-term role at the club.

Nuno Tavares 📸

The recent return of Maurizio Sarri as Lazio manager has further clouded Tavares’ situation. Sarri may prefer a more traditional, defensively disciplined option at left-back, raising questions about the 25-year-old’s fit in his system.

Interest mounts as Lazio demand higher fee

Clubs across Europe and the Middle East have inquired about Tavares’ availability, sensing an opportunity amid the uncertainty. Saudi giants Al-Hilal reportedly offered €25 million plus €5 million in bonuses. However, Lazio president Claudio Lotito dismissed the bid as insufficient.

Lotito is holding out for at least €40 million, partly because Arsenal is entitled to 40% of any future transfer fee. With such a high valuation, Lazio will only entertain serious proposals.

Nuno Tavares 📸

Igor Tudor, who coached Tavares during a successful 2022/23 season at Marseille, views him as a perfect fit for Juventus’ left flank in his 3-4-2-1 setup. Tavares thrived under the Croatian’s guidance in France, scoring six goals in 33 Ligue 1 appearances.

Although the pair missed the chance to work together at Lazio due to Tudor’s early departure last summer, both parties share mutual respect and a proven connection.

Juventus’ new management is expected to initiate talks with Lotito and sporting director Angelo Fabiani to explore a possible deal. While negotiations could be complex, the Bianconeri are reportedly by La Gazzetta dello Sport to be serious about reuniting the pair in Turin.

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