Lazio have reportedly made a firm decision on Daniel Maldini's future at the club—and it all hinges on one crucial match.
The 24-year-old attacker arrived in Rome during the January transfer window as part of a five-player mid-season overhaul. He joined Lazio on loan from Atalanta for €1 million, with an option to buy for an additional €14 million. That option could become an obligation—but only if Lazio secure European qualification.
Sporting director Angelo Fabiani initially saw Maldini as the perfect understudy for Mattia Zaccagni on the left wing. However, former manager Maurizio Sarri deployed him in a central forward role instead. Since his arrival, Maldini has managed just two goals—including a dramatic last-gasp equalizer against Udinese in April.
According to Il Corriere dello Sport, Lazio have decided against triggering the permanent purchase at season's end. The club reportedly wants to save those funds for a more prolific striker, especially given that fellow January signing Petar Ratkov has struggled to break into the lineup, and neither Tijjani Noslin nor Boulaye Dia has found consistent form in front of goal.
Il Messaggero (via Lazio Siamo Noi) confirms the club's stance, adding that Maldini's future now rests squarely on the outcome of the Coppa Italia final. If Lazio defeat Inter Milan, they'll secure a spot in next season's Europa League—triggering the obligation to buy Maldini from Atalanta. But if they fall short, the club is unlikely to exercise the option, and Maldini would return to Bergamo, where he remains under contract until 2029.
For a player carrying one of football's most iconic surnames, the next 90 minutes could decide everything.