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Franjo Ivanović joins Lens on loan, rejecting Lazio move
Croatian forward Franjo Ivanović has finalized a move to French club Lens on a one-year loan from Benfica. Despite significant interest and advanced negotiations with Italian side Lazio, Ivanović chose Lens to ensure participation in the UEFA Champions League.
Lazio manager Gennaro Gattuso expressed disappointment regarding the failed transfer, noting that the club had secured approval from Benfica and had been in close contact with the player. Gattuso suggested the club might have erred by not engaging with the player earlier in the process.
Lazio now faces a challenging transfer window as they seek a new striker with specific physical and speed attributes to suit Gattuso’s tactical requirements. The club is also evaluating its defensive options, including the future of Alessio Romagnoli and the potential contract termination of Gigot to free up resources.
In separate news, Osijek is reportedly considering the signing of former Croatian international defender Matej Mitrović, who is expected to undergo a trial with the club this week.
Entities
Benfica · Franjo Ivanović · Gennaro Gattuso · Lazio · Lens
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 4 SOURCES] Franjo Ivanović has chosen to join French club Lens on a one-year loan from Benfica. www.jutarnji.hr · www.index.hr
- [● 2 SOURCES] Lazio's coach Gennaro Gattuso confirmed the club attempted to secure Ivanović but failed because the player prioritized playing in the Champions League. www.index.hr
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The deal with Lens is a one-year loan without a predefined purchase price, though Lens has the option to buy. www.jutarnji.hr
- [● 3 SOURCES] Ivanović declined interest from Hull City and Real Betis during the transfer process. www.jutarnji.hr · www.index.hr