President Claudio Lotito reveals he was “forced” to accept Inter’s offer for Hernanes. “Players have too much power.”
The midfielder completed his transfer on deadline day for an undisclosed fee, though Lotito hints it could be as much as €20m.
President Claudio Lotito reveals he was “forced” to accept Inter’s offer for Hernanes. “Players have too much power.”
The midfielder completed his transfer on deadline day for an undisclosed fee, though Lotito hints it could be as much as €20m.
“For a year we showed with strength and conviction that we wanted Hernanes to continue his professional experience with the club, who always believed in his qualities as a man and as a player,” Lotito told Il Tempo newspaper.
“We never had any doubts in offering him the chance to continue with an important contract, which would’ve made him a leader.
“There was also a buy-out clause included, but after the last attempt with his agent and the player, we couldn’t reach a positive conclusion.
“We were forced into a corner by Hernanes’ refusal to sign, so simply had to accept Inter’s offer to avoid losing him on a free transfer. It was a very painful decision, but inevitable to safeguard the club’s finances.”
It had been reported the Nerazzurri paid €17m for the Brazilian, but Lotito suggests it is higher than that.
“I think €20m for Hernanes is acceptable, as we made a healthy profit on his sale and the same went for Sergio Floccari to Sassuolo.
“However, there is still too much power given to players and not enough to the clubs. Agents can behave extremely negatively and that ends up affecting their clients.”
Aquile fans expressed their displeasure with the January transfer strategy, which brought in Helder Postiga from Valencia and Gael Kakuta from Chelsea, both on loan.
“I am firmly convinced we have a competitive squad with many options in every area of the team. Helder Postiga has a lot of international experience and goes to reinforce the attack. Kakuta has great promise.
“I don’t buy players just to make the fans and media happy, but only to continue a serious, healthy and competitive football project.”
Portuguese veteran Postiga is cup-tied, so cannot take part in the Europa League.
Coach Edy Reja painted a bleak picture of Lazio’s status in yesterday’s Press conference when he revealed 10 different players turned down the chance to join them.