Ipswich and Hull are now in the race to sign Pellegrini after Emersonn's promotion
Ipswich Town and Hull City are now in a battle to sign Lazio defender Luca Pellegrini, following a fresh update on the future of Toulouse star Emersonn.
With both promoted to the Premier League, it is no surprise that Ipswich and Hull are keen to sign the same player, and both clubs have expressed an interest in striker Emersonn.
However, in a new development, it has emerged that the Bulldozer Boys will win the race to sign the Brazilian, having received a bid in the region of £20m.
After losing Emersonn to a Premier League rival club, the Tigers will now be hoping to get their own back in the race for a full-back.
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Football FanCast verdict |
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Honesty |
Pellegrini is a left-back by trade, which is an area both clubs may need to strengthen. Hull were heavily linked with a move for left-back Andy Robertson before a move to Tottenham Hotspur. On the other hand, Ipswich have no natural left-backs apart from Leif Davis. |
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Finance |
It is unclear what kind of money Lazio want, but he only has one year left on his contract, weakening the Serie A club's negotiating position. |
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Understanding |
Both teams can bring in experienced players if they are to avoid relegation. The defender has made 12 appearances in the Champions League, and has represented Italy at one point. |
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Impact |
At Portman Road, the Italian may be able to push for Davis' place in the starting XI, given the 26-year-old has spent most of his career in the lower leagues. There could be room for Hull to sign a new left-back, having agreed to part with Brandon Williams by mutual consent in February. |
Ipswich and Hull are involved in Luca Pellegrini's run
According to a report from LazioNews.eu (via Sport Witness), Ipswich and Hull are now going head-to-head in the race for Pellegrini's signature.
Espanyol are also keen, but both Premier League sides are likely to have more money to spend this summer, giving them the edge over the Spanish side.
Why Luca Pellegrini would do well at Ipswich or Hull
Turkish scout Salih praised the one-capped Italy international for his crossing ability, pace and defensive qualities, saying: “He can play as a left-back and as a left-back. His feet are strong. His crosses are very good; he is a fast, strong left-back.”
Although the Lazio defender has no experience in England, he has tested himself in the Champions League, Europa League, Bundesliga and Serie A, playing 141 games in the competition, during which he scored two goals and provided 16 assists.
The former Eintracht Frankfurter scored six of those goals in the 2024-25 season alone, during which time he also averaged 1.6 per 90, which was the highest number for the Lazio team.
Pellegrini is strong from a defensive point of view, but he can also contribute on the front foot, which shows he could be an exciting signing for Ipswich or Hull.
