GdS: Why Sarri is likely to be denied Loftus-Cheek reunion at Lazio

In this winter transfer window, AC Milan could try to raise money to strengthen the squad, but Ruben Loftus-Cheek is not going anywhere.

Loftus-Cheek started Friday night’s away match against Cagliari, demonstrating just how important he is to Massimiliano Allegri. From day one of preseason there have been reports about how much Allegri values the Englishman, and La Gazzetta dello Sport (seen below) confirm this.

The paper announce that the former Chelsea man isn’t likely to leave for Lazio in January. The primary reason is Allegri, because he ‘considers him very important for the team’. Despite Maurizio Sarri’s advances – a coach he worked well with in London – RLC isn’t expected to go anywhere.

Even if there were an agreement to begin negotiations, a financial problem would still remain. Loftus-Cheek’s salary of €4m net per season would significantly complicate any potential negotiations to take him to the capital.

The love affair between him and Sarri is thus shattered by the third wheel, Allegri. It seems equally unlikely that Lazio will be able to meet Milan’s financial demands, as they paid around €19m for the Englishman from Chelsea and won’t let him go for less.

So, it seems that Ruben is set to stay for another few months at least. However, his deal expires at the end of next season, so there will have to be talks over a renewal or a summer departure feels much more likely.