Lazio scrap Dieng deal after knee concerns surface

Lazio have abandoned their pursuit of free‑agent striker Bamba Dieng after medical examinations in Rome revealed knee concerns, meaning the Italian capital club will not add the 26‑year‑old Senegal international to their squad this summer. The Biancocelesti had scheduled intensive tests on Thursday, but the findings forced the deal to collapse.

Contract terms that fell through

Dieng had been set to join Lazio on a three‑year deal that would have paid him €1.5 million per season, plus a €500,000 signing bonus. The terms were reported as the basis for the proposed move before the medical assessment.

The Senegalese forward is a free agent after his contract with French side Lorient expires at the end of the 2025‑26 season. At 26, he became available without a transfer fee.

Career background of the striker

His résumé includes periods at Angers and Marseille in France, as well as an early spell with Diambars in Senegal. The 24‑time Senegal international has gathered experience across both Ligue 1 and his home league.

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Italian media outlets in Italy reported the collapse, and journalist Gianluca Di Marzio confirmed Lazio’s decision not to proceed. The reports said the club acted after the medical tests conducted on Thursday in Rome.

Lazio, known as the Biancocelesti, entered the examinations already aware of Dieng’s medical history, with particular worry over his knee. The concerns that surfaced during the intensive testing prompted the club to call off the signing.

With the deal off, Lazio must now explore alternative options to reinforce their attack this summer. The club’s next move will depend on the availability of other forwards in the market.