Softfootball understands that Bournemouth and Lazio have finalised the framework of a deal that may see Greek goalkeeper Christos Mandas transfer to the Premier League on an preliminary mortgage, with a conditional obligation to purchase that might rise to €20 million. Sport skilled Fabrizio Romano confirmed the settlement by way of his official X account.
He posted:
Bournemouth’s remaining bundle agreed with Lazio for Christos Mandas: potential €20m with add-ons, preliminary mortgage with purchase choice clause.
Mandas is ready to hitch the Cherries on mortgage till the tip of the 2025–26 season. The everlasting switch, nonetheless, isn’t computerized. It solely turns into obligatory if Bournemouth manages to qualify for European competitors and if Mandas hits a sure variety of appearances.
It’s a cautious setup, but additionally one that matches completely with how Bournemouth likes to do enterprise lately. The goalkeeper’s scenario at Lazio explains quite a bit. With Maurizio Sarri again in cost, Ivan Provedel has reclaimed his spot because the membership’s undisputed No. 1.
That shift pushed Mandas right into a secondary position, regardless of his making 33 appearances since his transfer from OFI Crete in 2023. For a participant at his age, sitting on the bench too typically isn’t ultimate, and common soccer has grow to be the precedence.
Bournemouth, which lately performed a 1-1 draw with Brighton, can provide that likelihood, although nothing is assured. Dorde Petrovic continues to be the first-choice goalkeeper, whereas Fraser Forster brings expertise and management to the group.
Mandas is anticipated so as to add actual competitors slightly than stroll straight into the beginning XI. If he adapts rapidly and earns belief, the deal may tilt in Bournemouth’s favour sooner than deliberate.
This isn’t a brand new strategy for the membership. The Cherries used an analogous loan-to-buy mannequin with Alex Jimenez from AC Milan, tying long-term commitments to efficiency and development. This has been efficient, and it limits pointless danger.
For Mandas, the Premier League transfer represents a contemporary problem and an opportunity to reset his trajectory. For Bournemouth, it’s one other measured step ahead.
