AC Milan have reached an agreement with Lazio for the permanent transfer of Spanish defender Mario Gila, according to reports in Italy. The deal is reportedly worth around €30 million, including bonuses, with Real Madrid due to receive approximately €15 million due to a 50% sell-on clause. Gila is expected to travel to Milan imminently to undergo a medical examination.
This move represents the second significant acquisition for Milan this transfer window, following the arrival of Gonçalo Ramos. Gila has long been a target for the club, with previous sporting directors and coaches reportedly identifying him as a priority signing. Despite changes in Milan’s management and coaching staff, interest in the defender persisted, although competition from Napoli and Atalanta emerged.
Gila, who will sign a five-year contract with a salary of €5 million per season, is expected to feature on the right side of a three-man defence, but is also capable of playing as a central defender. Milan coach Paulo Amorim reportedly approved the acquisition, viewing Gila as a key addition to the squad.
Negotiations reportedly experienced a brief slowdown recently as Lazio president Claudio Lotito initially deemed Milan’s offer insufficient. However, Milan owner Gerry Cardinale quickly responded with an increased offer, demonstrating his commitment to providing Amorim with desired players. As Gila is not currently involved in the World Cup, he will be available to join the team at the start of pre-season training. This transfer bolsters Milan’s defensive options ahead of the upcoming Serie A campaign and provides Amorim with a versatile player to implement his tactical plans.
