Atalanta Still Pushing for Romagnoli as Lazio Identify His Replacement

FolioPitch.com – 13 August 2026 | The summer transfer window is still ongoing, and several teams are working tirelessly to strengthen their lineups. Atalanta, one of the top teams in Serie A, is still pushing for the signing of Alessio Romagnoli, a 32-year-old defender who has been a long-time target for the Bergamo-based club.

Romagnoli has been a key player for Lazio in the past, but his relationship with the club’s management has deteriorated significantly, leading to reports that he is on the verge of a departure. According to Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla, Atalanta’s interest in Romagnoli has not wavered, despite the recent signing of Thomas Kristensen, a 24-year-old Danish defender who has joined the club on loan with an obligation to buy for circa €20 million.

Kristensen’s move to Atalanta is seen as a strategic signing, as it will allow the club to bolster their defense and potentially create space for Romagnoli to join. Maurizio Sarri, the Atalanta coach, is reportedly keen on reunifying with his former Lazio lieutenant, and the club’s management is willing to make a significant investment to make it happen.

However, Lazio is not giving up on Romagnoli without a fight. The club has identified Ibe Hautekiet, a 24-year-old Belgian defender, as a potential replacement for the departing defender. Hautekiet has a €5 million release clause in his contract, and Standard Liege, his current club, is holding out for this figure, refusing to grant any discounts.

The Belgian club has Hautekiet under contract until June 2029, so they are not in a hurry to sell him. Nevertheless, Lazio is keen on securing his services, and negotiations are ongoing. The Italian capital club is willing to offer a significant sum of money to secure Hautekiet’s signature, and it remains to be seen whether Standard Liege will cave in to their demands.

The situation surrounding Romagnoli’s future is complex, and it is unclear what the outcome will be. However, one thing is certain: Atalanta is still pushing hard for his signing, and Lazio is working tirelessly to identify his replacement.

As the summer transfer window enters its final stages, fans of both teams will be eagerly watching the developments, hoping to see their favorite players make a move to a new club.

Only time will tell what the future holds for Romagnoli and Hautekiet, but one thing is certain: the transfer market is always unpredictable, and anything can happen.