The Greek runners-up AEK are still active on the transfer market. According to Greek and Argentinian media reports, Argentine Erik Lamela, a well-known attacking player, is on the verge of moving to Athens
Lamela would be the Athenians’ fifth summer transfer. Previously, the two goalkeepers Alberto Brignoli (on a free transfer from league rivals Panathinaikos) and Thomas Strakosha (from FC Brentford) were signed. He was followed by Argentinian midfielder Roberto Pereyra, who was most recently under contract with Udinese, and Belgian winger Aboubakary Koita, who joined for 3.6 million from Belgian first division club VV Sint-Truidense.
Left-footed Lamela had been playing for Sevilla FC since 2021, where he made a total of 92 appearances (16 goals, seven assists). His contract was not renewed at the end of the season, meaning Lamela could now move to Athens on a free transfer. In his career, the 32-year-old also spent eight years at Tottenham and three seasons at AS Roma.
Almeyda is no stranger
The Argentinian could meet up with old friends in Athens. His former teammate Pereyra was only introduced on Friday. Both played as young talents at River Plate in Buenos Aires between 2009 and 2011. Back then, they had a well-known teammate named Matias Almeyda, who has been coaching AEK since 2022 and convinced both players to move to Athens.
Lamela celebrated his greatest success in 2022 when he won the Europa League with Sevilla FC. Back then, the Andalusians prevailed against Roma in Budapest after a 4:3 penalty shoot-out (1:1). Incidentally, Sevilla were coached at the time by current Olympiakos coach José Luis Mendilibar.
The 25-time Argentina international (three goals) is expected in Athens next week for a medical check and will then sign a contract until the summer of 2027.
