Julian Brandt has been linked with a host of clubs after departing Borussia Dortmund. While he's still under contract at the club, it runs out later this month following which he'll be available on a free transfer.
But having bid adieu to BVB last month upon the conclusion of 2025-26 season, he is still free to negotiate with sides that are keen on acquiring him as the 31-year-old has the entire summer to decide his next destination after being overlooked for Germany's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.
Brandt linked with Lazio
Julian Brandt has already been linked with Serie A side AS Roma recently. But turns out their city rivals Lazio are in the running too after the player's representatives offered him to Le Aquile.
The club is looking to rebuild itself under incoming manager Gennaro Gattusso after a disappointing run in 2025-26 season that saw Lazio finish as low as ninth and miss out on European football.
However, the German's reported salary demand of 2.5 to 3 million euros annually has reportedly become a stumbling block for Lazio, who don't want to stretch their wage bill.
Brandt is an enviable player to have on the books though. Predominantly an attacking midfielder, the 31-year-old is versatile enough to play across multiple positions.
This would give them immense tactical flexibility while Brandt is adept at creating goalscoring opportunities with his exquisite passes or link-up plays while also chipping in with a goal or two often.
Midfield talisman not keen on substitute role
Reports suggest that Gattuso is looking for a backup to Mattia Zaccagni, which means Brandt could merely be a substitute in the Italian's squad and hence find only limited gametime.
However, the player isn't keen on the role as Brandt's stature means he expects to play a more prominent role than just a backup option.
At 31, the German midfielder is still in the prime of his career and has a few more years left at the top as Brandt could well be play an instrumental role in a side that's competing for top honors.
But his wage demand as well as the prospect of playing a subordinate role could potentially spoil any hopes of a transfer to Lazio, leaving Roma the sole Italian side in the race.
Reports earlier suggest that Brandt is keen to join LaLiga, where Atletico Madrid and champions Barcelona have been linked with him.
Add us as a preferred source on Google