​Lazio are in advanced negotiations for two new central defenders: Sergi Dominguez of Dinamo Zagreb and free agent Danilho Doekhi, though Diogo Leite seems unlikely to join. The Aquile are compelled to overhaul their backline after selling Alessio Romagnoli to Al-Sadd and Mario Gila to Milan.
Danilho Doekhi, a 28-year-old who is now a free agent, has drawn interest from a host of clubs since his contract with Union Berlin expired. Transfer insiders, including renowned pundit Fabrizio Romano, indicate that Lazio are in the final stages of talks to sign Doekhi. The defender has been linked with Besiktas, Fenerbahce, Aston Villa, Leeds United, and Crystal Palace, among others, as he explores options ahead of a potential move. Doekhi’s experience in top-flight football and his versatility at the back make him an appealing target for Lazio as they seek to shore up their defense.
On the other front, Lazio are pressing to secure Sergi Dominguez from Dinamo Zagreb. Dominguez, who previously spent time with Barcelona, had already had personal terms agreed with Lazio. However, Lazio’s bid faced resistance due to Dinamo Zagreb’s €12 million asking price. Earlier this week, Lazio director Angelo Maria Fabiani traveled to Croatia to advance negotiations, but a loan deal worth €3.5 million plus an option to buy for €8 million was rejected by the Croatian club. Lazio now aim to intensify their efforts with a fresh offer that could persuade Dinamo Zagreb to let Dominguez move to Rome.
Sportitalia’s sources also highlight that Lazio did inquire about free agent Diogo Leite, though current indications suggest they are not pursuing talks with his representatives at this moment. Leite’s recent status has included reports of interest and a potential move, but Lazio appear to be prioritizing Dominguez and Doekhi in their rebuilding plan.
Dominguez’s profile remains attractive due to his age and potential resale value; he is still only early in his 20s and has shown a maturity and technical ability suited to Lazio’s tactical setup. Lazio’s quest to bring in a stable, left-footed center-back to balance the backline is part of a broader strategy to refresh the squad after the sales of Romagnoli and Gila. The club’s management is reportedly eager to complete both acquisitions promptly to reinforce the defense before the upcoming season.
In parallel, there has been chatter about Doekhi’s availability in the market, reinforcing Lazio’s interest in a player who can contribute immediately in central defense and offer leadership at the back. Doekhi’s performances, combined with his physical presence and adaptability, align with Lazio’s needs, making him a strong option should a deal with Union Berlin come to fruition.
For Lazio fans and stakeholders, the focus remains on swiftly closing terms with both targets. The objective is to secure a durable central-defensive pairing that can anchor the defense, distribute from the back, and contribute to a more solid overall performance. If Lazio can finalize a competitive bid for Dominguez and secure Doekhi’s services as a free agent, they would achieve a significant step toward restoring balance and depth to the squad.
As negotiations unfold, Lazio’s approach will likely involve balancing transfer fees, loan structures, and potential buy options to satisfy Dinamo Zagreb’s valuation while aligning with the club’s financial framework. The evolving situation will be watched closely by supporters and analysts, who are keen to see how Lazio’s revamped backline will perform in the upcoming campaign.