Valentino Lazaro will leave Torino on a free transfer this summer, ending a four-year spell with the Serie A club. The Austrian international’s departure has been communicated to his representatives by the club’s management, with Brazilian giants Palmeiras emerging as the most concrete suitor for his signature.
According to reports from Italy, Lazaro’s agents are actively exploring opportunities abroad, with interest from a Qatari club and significant movement from the Middle East. However, the most advanced interest comes from Palmeiras, who are leading the Brazilian championship and are targeting a renewed Copa Libertadores campaign. The São Paulo-based side has been searching for a versatile wide player and has made initial contact regarding the 30-year-old.
Lazaro, who turned 30 in March, is said to be intrigued by the prospect of playing in Brazil and has instructed his representatives to deepen talks with Palmeiras. The player believes he is physically fit to perform at a high level for several more years, a view supported by his 120 Serie A appearances for Torino since 2022. His versatility, being able to operate on either flank, is seen as a particular asset to Palmeiras manager Abel Ferreira.
The decision for Lazaro to move on aligns with Torino’s plans under coach Davide D'Aversa, who is now prioritizing players with a long-term future at the club. This has resulted in significantly reduced playing time for Lazaro in recent months; he has managed just 61 minutes across Torino's last six league matches, remaining an unused substitute on four of those occasions. His most recent appearance came as a 54-minute substitute against Inter Milan, covering for the unavailable Mergim Vojvoda.
Lazaro joined Torino permanently in 2020 after a previous stint at Inter Milan and has been a serviceable squad member, though never an undisputed starter. His impending departure on a free transfer represents a valuable market opportunity for clubs seeking an experienced, flexible wide option without a transfer fee. For Torino, it clears a significant salary from the wage bill as they plan their rebuild.
The move signifies a new chapter for Lazaro, who is eager for a fresh challenge late in his career, potentially outside of Europe. For Palmeiras, acquiring a player of his experience and tactical flexibility on a free transfer would be a low-risk, high-reward addition as they compete on multiple fronts. While other offers exist, the project at the Brazilian club currently appears to be the most compelling path forward for the player.
