Wolves and Southampton Monitoring Lazio’s Christos Mandas – Transfer Effort Hinges on Managerial Decision
Wolverhampton Wanderers and Southampton are both keeping a close eye on the situation surrounding Lazio goalkeeper Christos Mandas, but are holding off on making formal transfer moves as they await clarity from the Italian club. According to Il Messaggero, via La Lazio Siamo Noi, both English clubs have expressed serious interest in signing the 23-year-old shot-stopper, but any potential deal hinges on a key decision from returning Lazio manager Maurizio Sarri.
Mandas, who impressed in Serie A last season, may find his standing at Lazio significantly boosted now that Sarri is back at the helm. The Greek goalkeeper seized the opportunity to become the club’s first-choice keeper during the previous campaign and reportedly shares a strong working relationship with Sarri, who previously handed him opportunities before stepping away from the role.
Sarri’s return has effectively hit the reset button at Lazio. He is currently evaluating his squad to determine the pecking order in every position, including the goalkeeping department. If Sarri decides to install Mandas as his starting goalkeeper going forward, the chances of a summer exit for the Greek international will dramatically diminish. However, should Sarri opt for a more experienced option or look for reinforcements elsewhere, the door could reopen for Wolves and Southampton to step in.
Both Premier League sides are understood to be monitoring developments closely and have already communicated their interest to intermediaries. However, they are choosing not to act prematurely. They are waiting for Lazio to send a clear signal indicating that Mandas is available before initiating any formal negotiations or submitting offers. In short, Wolves and Southampton are reluctant to waste time or resources until they know for certain that a transfer is on the table.
From Lazio’s perspective, there may be motivation to sell. Mandas, who was signed for a relatively modest fee, could now fetch upwards of €20 million—a significant profit that would help the club balance its books and potentially reinvest in other areas of the squad. With Financial Fair Play regulations a constant concern for Italian clubs, capital gains from player sales are often a crucial part of summer transfer planning.
Still, Lazio are in no rush. The final decision rests with Sarri, who is still in the early stages of planning for the upcoming season. His assessment of Mandas’ role could have a ripple effect not just on Lazio’s goalkeeping situation but also on the transfer strategies of both Wolves and Southampton.
The interest from the two English clubs also reflects Mandas’ rising stock. At just 23 years old, he is seen as a long-term solution between the posts. Wolves are believed to be exploring options to reinforce their goalkeeping department, with doubts over the long-term futures of some of their current keepers. Southampton, meanwhile, are preparing for a Premier League return and are eager to strengthen key areas of the pitch, including securing a reliable presence in goal.
As things stand, the situation remains in limbo. Wolves and Southampton are ready to make their move—but only once they receive the green light from Lazio. Until Maurizio Sarri finalizes his plans for the 2025/26 season, both clubs will remain on standby, prepared to act swiftly should the opportunity to sign Christos Mandas officially present itself.