Lazio are reportedly intensifying their efforts to sign Mauro Icardi as Gennaro Gattuso continues to demand a new striker ahead of the 2026/27 season. The Argentine forward is currently a free agent after leaving Galatasaray at the end of last season, making him an attractive option for Lazio as they look to add more competition to their attacking department.

The need has become increasingly urgent with Lazio preparing for their first competitive match of the new campaign against Mantova in the opening round of the Coppa Italia. Despite several attempts to strengthen the forward line during the summer, the club have yet to secure the striker Gattuso has been asking for. Recent developments suggest that Icardi has emerged as a serious candidate, with the Lazio coach also showing strong appreciation for the experienced forward.

According to reports from Italy, Lazio have stepped up their pursuit of Icardi following the completion of Davide Frattesi’s move from Inter. Club president Claudio Lotito and sporting director Angelo Fabiani are aware that the 33-year-old prioritizes a move to a major European club or a team capable of offering Champions League football. So far, his concrete options have been limited, with an offer from Olympiakos rejected and another proposal reportedly coming from Mexico.

Lazio have now narrowed their striker shortlist to two main candidates, with Icardi appearing to be their preferred target. Andrea Pinamonti remains the alternative and could be a more financially manageable option, as the 27-year-old is reportedly open to leaving Sassuolo with one year remaining on his contract. His salary demands would also be lower than Icardi’s, giving Lazio a different route if negotiations for the former Inter and Paris Saint-Germain striker prove too difficult.