Softfootball understands that Bournemouth and Lazio have finalised the framework of a deal that will see Greek goalkeeper Christos Mandas move to the Premier League on an initial loan, with a conditional obligation to buy that could rise to €20 million. Sport expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the agreement via his official X account.
He posted:
Bournemouth’s final package agreed with Lazio for Christos Mandas: potential €20m with add-ons, initial loan with buy option clause.
Mandas is set to join the Cherries on loan until the end of the 2025–26 season. The permanent transfer, however, is not automatic. It only becomes mandatory if Bournemouth manages to qualify for European competition and if Mandas hits a certain number of appearances.
It’s a careful setup, but also one that fits perfectly with how Bournemouth likes to do business these days. The goalkeeper’s situation at Lazio explains a lot. With Maurizio Sarri back in charge, Ivan Provedel has reclaimed his spot as the club’s undisputed No. 1.
That shift pushed Mandas into a secondary role, despite his making 33 appearances since his move from OFI Crete in 2023. For a player at his age, sitting on the bench too often isn’t ideal, and regular football has become the priority.
Bournemouth, which recently played a 1-1 draw with Brighton, can offer that chance, though nothing is guaranteed. Dorde Petrovic is still the first-choice goalkeeper, while Fraser Forster brings experience and leadership to the group.
Mandas is expected to add real competition rather than walk straight into the starting XI. If he adapts quickly and earns trust, the deal could tilt in Bournemouth’s favour faster than planned.
This isn’t a new approach for the club. The Cherries used a similar loan-to-buy model with Alex Jimenez from AC Milan, tying long-term commitments to performance and progression. This has been effective, and it limits unnecessary risk.
For Mandas, the Premier League move represents a fresh challenge and a chance to reset his trajectory. For Bournemouth, it’s another measured step forward.
