AFC Bournemouth have expressed strong interest in Lazio centre-back Mario Gila, according to sources at TEAMtalk. The Cherries are considering the 25-year-old Spaniard as a potential replacement for Marcos Senesi, who is set to depart the Vitality Stadium this summer.
Senesi, who joined Bournemouth from Feyenoord in 2022, is leaving as a free agent after reportedly rejecting new contract offers and reaching an agreement in principle to join Tottenham Hotspur. His departure creates a need for central defensive reinforcements for Bournemouth, particularly after their qualification for the Europa League.
Gila has established himself as a reliable defender in Serie A since joining Lazio from Real Madrid in 2022. The Barcelona-born player is known for his composure under pressure, aerial ability, and tactical intelligence, having featured regularly under both Maurizio Sarri and subsequent managers. He has also attracted interest from other Premier League clubs over the past two years.
Bournemouth have submitted an enquiry for Gila, signalling their concrete intent to pursue a youthful, ball-playing centre-back. However, they face competition from AC Milan, who are also keen to secure his signature. The Rossoneri may find it difficult to match the financial power of Premier League clubs in terms of wages.
A transfer fee of around €25million (£21.6m) is anticipated to be sufficient to secure Gila’s services, although Real Madrid retain a sell-on percentage from his previous transfer. For Bournemouth, acquiring Gila would represent a shrewd piece of business, adding both quality and potential resale value to their squad. The club is undergoing a period of change, with the departure of head coach Andoni Iraola already confirmed.
Gila’s contract situation at Lazio, entering its final year, could make negotiations challenging, but his desire for a new challenge in England may prove decisive. Interestingly, Bournemouth's sporting director, Tiago Pinto, is a managerial target for AC Milan, potentially complicating matters.
