Romagnoli’s Agent Reveals Al-Sadd Transfer Hurdles, Dismisses Lazio Return

FolioPitch.com – 23 July 2026 | The saga of Alessio Romagnoli‘s potential move to Qatari side Al-Sadd continues to drag on, with the defender’s agent providing a detailed explanation for the delay while firmly ruling out a return to Lazio. In an interview with Chiamarsibomber.com, Enzo Raiola addressed the complications surrounding the transfer, emphasizing that Romagnoli’s time with the Biancocelesti is over. Romagnoli s Agent Explains Al-Sadd Delay Rules Out Lazio Return as the primary narrative, shedding light on bureaucratic and geopolitical factors that have stalled the deal.

Unforeseen Bureaucratic Hurdles

Last month, Lazio and Al-Sadd had agreed on a €3 million fee for the 30-year-old center-back, seemingly ending a transfer saga that had simmered since January. However, the move hit an unexpected snag. Raiola pointed to two major obstacles: the death of the former Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, and the region’s ongoing instability. Following the former Emir’s passing, a period of national mourning was declared, bringing many non-essential activities to a halt. Additionally, an attack on an oil well in Qatar has heightened security concerns. The country’s sports ministry, which oversees club budgets, has prioritized defense spending over football investments. As a result, Qatari clubs have been unable to finalize any transfer agreements until the ministry releases the allocated funds. Romagnoli s Agent Explains Al-Sadd Delay Rules Out Lazio Return in this context, clarifying that the delay is beyond the player’s or clubs’ control.

Raiola stated, “Al Sadd still want Alessio Romagnoli and the deal remains alive, but at present they cannot sign any transfer agreement until the budget situation is resolved.” This confirms that the Qatari club remains keen on acquiring the Italian defender, but practicalities prevent them from moving forward immediately.

Romagnoli’s Lazio Exit Inevitable

With the transfer in limbo, speculation arose that Romagnoli could be reintegrated into Gennaro Gattuso’s squad at Lazio. However, Raiola dismissed that possibility outright. He reiterated that the relationship between Romagnoli and Lazio president Claudio Lotito has soured irreparably. The defender had publicly bid farewell to fans in a video posted during a protest against Lotito earlier this month, signaling his desire to leave. Raiola confirmed, “As for his future at Lazio, we’re not thinking about that at the moment. We’re waiting for news from the Qatari ministry.” This statement leaves little room for a return. Romagnoli s Agent Explains Al-Sadd Delay Rules Out Lazio Return as the definitive stance, reinforcing that the defender’s chapter at Lazio is closed.

Romagnoli still has one year remaining on his Lazio contract, but his departure is considered inevitable. The agent noted that Romagnoli is scheduled to undergo medical tests on Thursday, though it remains unclear whether those are related to the Al-Sadd move or another potential destination. Given the current impasse, other clubs may express interest, but Raiola insists the priority is Al-Sadd.

What’s Next for Romagnoli?

As the Qatari ministry works through its budget allocations, both clubs are in a waiting game. Raiola suggested that Al-Sadd still intends to complete the transfer once the financial green light is given. However, if the delay extends into the new season, Romagnoli’s options may narrow. The defender, once a key figure for Lazio and before that AC Milan, is eager for a fresh start. His agent remains confident that the Al-Sadd deal will eventually go through, but the timeline is uncertain.

In conclusion, the Romagnoli saga is far from over. While the transfer to Al-Sadd is on hold due to external factors, the player’s desire to leave Lazio is unequivocal. The club and fans must accept that Romagnoli will not be part of Gattuso’s plans. For now, all parties await a resolution from Qatar. Romagnoli s Agent Explains Al-Sadd Delay Rules Out Lazio Return, providing clarity amid the confusion, but the ultimate outcome hinges on bureaucratic decisions far from the pitch.