As I said I think the A319/A320 would be better, but I don't think easyJet will think so.
The CP does have a significant input, although he may be out voted.
The cargo hold is lower on the 737 and can be loaded from the back of a truck (thanks f/spninx). I have jumped in to the forward hold many times to retrieve my and other crew bags - couldn't do that on the A320.
The 737 has airstairs, although easy don't like to use them if pax steps are available.
Whether the 'Italian difficulty' is over or not is a risk they may not be willing to take. The Italians do things their own way.