The summer transfer window is heating up, and Guinean powerhouse defender Bafodé Diakité from LOSC Lille is on the verge of a new chapter. Chased by Bournemouth for several weeks, Diakité is close to signing with the Cherries, with the operation valued at €40 million including bonuses. This deal would be one of Lille’s biggest moves in recent seasons, as they just let Lucas Chevalier join PSG.
Since arriving from Toulouse in 2022, Diakité quickly established himself as a mainstay in Lille’s backline with impressive versatility and physical prowess. As a key figure and Guinean international, he attracted intense interest from English clubs, especially as Bournemouth seeks to replace Illia Zabarnyi, who has joined PSG. Diakité and Bournemouth have already reached a contractual agreement, with only the transfer amount left to finalize—LOSC is holding out for the sum set by president Olivier Létang.
For Lille, Diakité’s departure is worrying but aligns with their strategy of honoring player ambitions and market realities. The club president promised not to hinder his defender’s progress if a suitable offer arrived. Lille’s defensive future hangs on the outcome of negotiations, with the arrival of Nathan Ngoy possibly filling Diakité’s shoes.
Ultimately, this imminent Premier League signing marks an important milestone in Diakité’s career and reflects Bournemouth’s growing ambitions in the English top flight, ready to pay big in the transfer market. Lille’s transfer activity, though turbulent, remains strategic as they prepare to bid farewell to one of their defensive pillars.
