Report Pedraza targeted by Lazio for January 2026, as Nuno Tavares too frustrating

30.12.2025 23:19

Lazio are yet to make a decision on the future of Nuno Tavares, but are meanwhile reported to be evaluating Villarreal veteran Alfonso Pedraza and Genoa’s Aaron Martin.

Maurizio Sarri has not been shy about his frustration with former Arsenal man Nuno Tavares, who is strong when going forward, but decidedly lacking if required to defend in a 4-3-3 formation.

With that in mind, he could be sold in the January transfer window, and replacements sought now the embargo on new signings has been lifted.

Lazio looking at Pedraza and Martin

VILLARREAL, SPAIN – DECEMBER 10: Alfonso Pedraza of Villarreal CF with the ball during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Villarreal CF and F.C. Copenhagen at Estadio de la Ceramica on December 10, 2025 in Villarreal, Spain. (Photo by Mateo Villalba Sanchez/Getty Images)

An interesting target is Pedraza, whose contract with Villarreal is running down at the end of this season.

According to transfer pundit Alfredo Pedulla, there has already been contact with the 29-year-old, who is considered in his prime and ready to deliver in January.

Pedraza is known to be a more solid presence when defending and earned one senior cap for Spain in October 2023.

Another potential option for the Aquile is current Genoa left-back Martin, who had already been on their radar in the summer before the financial limitations became clear.