Japanese Free Agent Has Been Offered to Lazio
Lazio have reportedly been offered the services of Japanese attacking midfielder Ryotaro Ito, who is currently unattached.
Lazio Can Still Sign a Free Agent
When the transfer market in Italy closed in early September, the Biancocelesti had to present their Serie A squad list. Interestingly, they decided to omit Patric and Luca Pellegrini, preferring to leave two vacant spots.
Diogo Leite arrived a few days later to fill one of the vacancies, while Gennaro Gattuso objected to Mauro Icardi’s arrival, fearing it could disrupt the team’s harmony. But with one remaining spot in the squad, Lazio can still poach another free agent.
Ryotaro Ito Offered to Lazio
According to reports from Japan relayed by Il Corriere dello Sport, Lazio have the opportunity to sign Ito on a free transfer. The 28-year-old has been offered to the Aquile, who are still able to sign another non-EU player. At this stage, the Italian capital club has yet to show openness to the proposal, but it remains to be seen whether their stance will change after thorough reflection.
Ito’s Playing Role & Career Path
Ito is an attacking midfielder renowned for his technical skills and long-range shooting ability. He can also play further up the pitch as a winger or a second striker, or in a deeper midfield role.
The Osaka native represented a host of Japanese clubs throughout his career, including Urawa Red Diamonds. His only foreign experience was a three-year spell at Belgian top-tier club Sint-Truiden, which ended in the summer.
Why Lazio Will Be Reluctant to Sign Ito
Since his arrival in July, Gennaro Gattuso has opted to maintain Maurizio Sarri’s 4-3-3 formation, believing it best suits the characteristics of the players at his disposal. So while Lazio signed a new attacking midfielder/second striker in Albert Gudmundsson, his role at the club remains unclear.
Therefore, Ito will likely face a similar issue, not to mention that his career trajectory isn’t the most elusive. Hence, Gattuso will most probably turn down the opportunity to sign the Japanese player.
