Over the past two seasons, he has made five appearances in the Scottish Premiership, all of which have come off the bench (all data courtesy of Fbref).
According to Italian outlet Citta Celeste, the Rome-based club is planning a move for the 18-year-old as part of their squad overhaul.
Vata has come through the academy system at Parkhead, but has been unable to break into the first team squad consistently.
This summer, a move might be planned with the goal of possibly getting more playing time.
Watford was originally mentioned as a potential suitor for Vata, but Lazio will now present a challenge.
Vata will become a free agent when his contract with Celtic expires in the summer.
He has been with Celtic since he was seven years old, therefore a compensation payment will still need to be made.
It is believed Watford will owe the Scottish powerhouses a sum of money in the region of £239000 should they win the race to recruit the forward.
The Ireland youth international has received a new contract offer from Celtic, but Brendan Rodgers’ lack of playing time may be a hint that he plans to leave Glasgow at the end of the season.
He would continue with the team until the summer of 2027 if Celtic’s offer is accepted, although it is unclear if he would be persuaded to stay.
This next transfer window, Lazio is anticipated to make significant changes to their first team roster, with a focus on youth.
Many well-known players, like Luis Alberto and Ciro Immobile, have contracts that expire and will be leaving the Stadio Olimpico.
The top tier club has identified many targets, including Vata.
Sampdoria, Bologna, and Como have all been identified as parties interested in the Celtic talent.
Watford league position
Watford, who will likely stay in the second level, is preparing for life in the Championship the following season.
With three games left, the Hornets are 19 points off of the play-off spots and now sit in 15th place in the standings.
The team is safe in its second-tier standing because the difference between them and the relegation zone is likewise eight points.
The first team squad is led by Tom Cleverley, but it’s not obvious if he’ll stay in that position permanently for the upcoming campaign.
Vata is an exciting prospect
Although Vata hasn’t been able to establish himself as a consistent member of the Celtic team this year, his potential is undeniably exciting.
The forward’s promise at the youth level is demonstrated by the fact that he has already been named an Ireland U21 international.
A transfer to Watford might be quite alluring, but it’s hard to predict what the club will be like come season-opening due to the absence of a permanent management.
Vata’s next move will probably prioritise getting more playing time, therefore the Championship team’s greatest chance of signing him is to ensure a smooth transition into the starting lineup.
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