Christos Mandas Keen to Leave Lazio in January Amid Wolves and Getafe Interest
Christos Mandas, the Lazio goalkeeper, has reportedly expressed his desire to leave the club during the upcoming January transfer window. Frustrated by his lack of playing time, the 24-year-old Greek custodian is seeking a new challenge where he can secure regular first-team opportunities. As he presses for a move, a transfer race is underway with English Premier League side Wolves and Spanish La Liga club Getafe both keen on acquiring his services.
The Background: Mandas’ Journey at Lazio
Mandas joined Lazio in the summer of 2023 from OFI Crete, marking a significant step up in his career by moving to Serie A. Initially seen as a backup option, the Greek goalkeeper impressed during the latter stages of the 2023/24 season, seizing his chance when first-choice keeper Ivan Provedel was sidelined due to injury. Not only did Mandas stand in admirably, but he also won the confidence of then-manager Marco Baroni, who ranked him ahead of Provedel in the pecking order during the second half of the campaign.
However, the arrival of Maurizio Sarri back at Formello has changed Mandas’ fortunes drastically. Sarri quickly reinstated Provedel as the number one goalkeeper, leaving Mandas benched and sidelined. Since the beginning of the current season, Mandas has not featured in any competitive fixtures, an increasingly frustrating situation for the talented goalie eager to showcase his skills.
Christos Mandas Keen to Leave Lazio in January: Seeking Playing Time
Mandas’ request for a January transfer underscores the importance of regular playing time for a goalkeeper at this stage of his career. At 24, the Greek international is at a critical juncture where continuous development and match experience are essential. Sitting on the bench behind Provedel not only limits his growth but also reduces his visibility on the international stage.
The goalkeeping position is unique, as typically only one player occupies the role throughout a match, making competition fierce and opportunities scarce. For Mandas, waiting patiently behind Provedel could mean two or more seasons of limited minutes, a scenario that neither he nor Lazio appears to favor.
Wolves and Getafe Express Interest in Mandas
The January transfer window may provide the perfect opportunity for Mandas to find a new home where he can compete for the number one spot. Premier League club Wolves has maintained a close eye on the situation. Already having made initial approaches to sign Mandas, Wolves see his profile fitting well with their ambitions and squad requirements.
At the same time, the Spanish top-flight offers another realm of possibilities. Mandas’ agency, YouFirst, has been actively exploring options in La Liga, with Getafe emerging as a credible suitor. For Getafe, bringing in a goalkeeper like Mandas could strengthen their defensive options and provide competition between the sticks.
This dual interest reflects Mandas’ growing reputation and the fact that several clubs recognize his talent despite the current lack of playing minutes at Lazio.
Lazio’s Asking Price and Transfer Prospects
Originally valued at around €20 million, Mandas’ price tag has decreased due to his reduced exposure during the ongoing campaign. Lazio, however, could be open to accepting offers close to €10 million. Given that the Biancocelesti invested approximately €1 million in acquiring him from OFI Crete just over two years ago, this figure would still represent a significant profit.
For potential buyers such as Wolves and Getafe, this makes Mandas an attractive prospect — a young goalkeeper with proven Serie A experience, available at a reasonable valuation.
What Lies Ahead for Christos Mandas?
As the January transfer window approaches, it remains to be seen which club will triumph in the race to secure Mandas’ signature. For the Greek stopper, the foremost priority is clear: regular competitive action that allows him to continue improving and establish himself as a first-choice keeper.
Whether he moves to the Premier League with Wolves or to Spain’s La Liga with Getafe, a fresh start could reignite Mandas’ career and fulfill his potential. For Lazio, the departure would relieve a crowded goalkeeping roster and bring a healthy financial return on their investment.
In the fast-evolving world of football transfers, all eyes will be on Mandas in the coming weeks as he prepares to transition from a Lazio benchwarmer to a new club’s key asset.
P.S.A couple of lighter / more human moments about Mandas:
1.Goalkeeping Mistake & Honest Confession
In a Coppa Italia match vs Napoli, Mandas admitted he made a mistake on a goal:
“I could have saved Neres’ shot better … I saw the ball at the very last moment … Starting tomorrow, I’ll work on it with the goalkeeping coach.”
The humility is pretty endearing — for a young keeper, being that open about a blunder shows character.
2.Used to Be a Striker
According to Lazio’s official news, when he was younger, Mandas actually played as a striker!
A striker-turned-goalkeeper is always a fun twist — it’s like he went from “trying to score goals” to “saving them.”
3.Manchester City Offer Reaction
He confirmed he got a bid from Manchester City, and his reaction was very “cool, but grounded”:
“It’s always nice to receive certain kinds of appreciation … If a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity comes along, it’s right to consider it carefully.”
