Torino Coach Baroni Keen to Reunite With Lazio Favorite Who’s Leaving in January

Torino manager Marco Baroni is reportedly interested in a reunion with Lazio goalkeeper Christos Mandas, who has no shortage of suitors.

Christos Mandas Destined to Leave Lazio in January

Aside from him his appearance against AC Milan in the Coppa Italia, the Greek custodian has been relegated to the bench this season on the orders of Maurizio Sarri, who fielded Ivan Provedel in each of Lazio’s Serie A fixtures thus far this season. Therefore, the 24-year-old is widely expected to leave the club in January.

Marco Baroni Wants Mandas at Torino

According to Il Messaggero (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), Torino are preparing to launch an onslaught for Mandas, fueled by Baroni’s desire to work with the shot-stopper once more. The former OFI Crete man became Lazio’s first choice goalkeeper durinng the second half of the previous campaign, after convincing the 62-year-old head coach with his solid displays, while Provedel was out of sorts.

Christos Mandas (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

The Granata had been enduring issues between the sticks since selling Vanja Milinkovic-Savic to Napoli last summer. Franco Israel arrived as a replacement, but he’s been blowing hot and cold. The Uruguayan was recently dropped in favor of 33-year-old Alberto Paleari, so the club is seeking a more inspiring option.

Genoa Leading the Race for Mandas?

Il Messaggero journalist Alberto Abbate shed some light on the situation during his interview with Radio Laziale (via La Lazio Siamo Noi). The club insider insists that Genoa remains in the lead in the race for Mandas, as they have also offered the Aquile the services of Nicola Leali in exchange for the Greek international.

Panathinaikos Willing to Offer Lazio €10m

Nevertheless, the goalkeeper’s Italian admirers can only sign the shot-stopper on loan in January, while the only suitor capable of striking a permanent deal is Panathinaikos.

Movements are underway on the Mandas front, even though all the teams want him on loan. Genoa are currently in the lead, with a six-month swap deal for Leali. But if want to sell him, Panathinaikos has come forward and is the only club that would offer around €10 million.