Full Breakdown
Boulaye Dia Nears Move to Rennes, Prompting Lazio’s Search for a Replacement
8/31/2026, 8:09:08 PM
Transfer Negotiations Between Lazio and Rennes
Italian journalist Damiano Er Faina reported that Lazio and Stade Rennais are in “advanced negotiations” over Senegal international Boulaye Dia. The striker has reportedly agreed personal terms with the Ligue 1 club, while the two sides discuss a transfer fee that Lazio is said to value at €15 million. The deal cannot be completed until club owner Claudio Lotito gives final approval, according to thelaziali.
Financial and Contractual Context
Dia arrived in Rome on a two-year loan with an obligation to buy for €16 million. Lazio’s asking price of €15 million would therefore represent a modest reduction on the original clause. At the same time, Moroccan forward Yanis Begraoui remains under contract with Estoril Praia until June 2028 and is valued at €12 million by Transfermarkt.
Potential Replacement: Yanis Begraoui
Foot Mercato identified Begraoui as one of Lazio’s leading candidates to fill the void left by Dia. The 25-year-old scored 20 goals in 34 Liga Portugal matches during the 2025-26 season, establishing himself as one of the league’s most prolific forwards. His prior development in the French youth system (Auxerre) and senior spells with Toulouse and Pau FC were noted by africasoccer. Lazio’s interest in Begraoui is explicitly linked to the completion of Dia’s transfer; the club will only pursue the Moroccan striker once the Rennes deal is finalized.
Implications for Lazio’s Squad Planning
Lazio’s attacking options have been unsettled after Dia’s limited involvement last season—only 14 starts and three goal contributions. The club’s next Serie A fixture against Genoa will be the first test of its forward line after the potential departure. Analysts suggest that securing Begraoui could restore depth, but the timing of the fee agreement will dictate how much budget remains for additional signings.
Outlook and Next Steps
Rennes, as reported by Ouest-France, are making a “late push” to secure Dia before the transfer window closes, aiming to bolster their attack for Ligue 1 and the Europa League. Lazio, meanwhile, awaits Lotito’s sign-off on the €15 million fee and will likely move forward with Begraoui only after the Rennes deal is confirmed. The outcome will shape both clubs’ attacking strategies heading into the second half of the season.
