DONE DEAL: AFC Bournemouth Has Defeated Sunderland AFC In The Race To Sign Bafodé Diakité From Lille To A €30m 5 Year Contract

Sunderland pushing to sign Bafodé Diakité from Lille as Bournemouth exit the race

According to a report from Fabrice Hawkins, Sunderland are pushing to acquire the services of Bafodé Diakité (24) from Lille during the summer transfer window. The Ligue 1 club are demanding a fee in the region of €40m for the French defender.

Bournemouth had targeted a move for Diakité. However, after seeing a €30m bid rejected by Les Dogues for the defender, they have now exited the race for the 24-year-old’s signature. As a result, Sunderland have now assumed pole position in the race for the Frenchman.

Personal term agreed?

Hawkins understands that personal terms would be no issue if Diakité were to move to the newly promoted Premier League club. Sunderland are keen to recruit the Lille defender, and the interest in moving to the English top flight is reciprocated by the centre back. Nevertheless, the Black Cats will have to meet the €40m asking price before any move can take place.

Nottingham Forest wants to hijack Juventus move for winger

Nottingham Forest have expressed interest in signing Jadon Sancho, but the winger remains focused on securing a move to Juventus.

In recent weeks, the Bianconeri have made significant progress in negotiations with Manchester United as they look to add Sancho to their squad. The player has been informed by the Red Devils that he is no longer part of their plans, and he is open to leaving Old Trafford this summer.

Sancho has reportedly agreed terms with Juventus, indicating a clear preference for the Bianconeri. However, while personal terms have been settled, Juventus have yet to finalise the transfer and are proceeding with caution as they assess their financial position.

Forest Attempt to Swoop In

Sunderland have had a £23m bid rejected for Lille defender and Bournemouth target Bafode Diakite, with the Ligue 1 club demanding a fee in the region of £34m for the 24-year-old Frenchman. (

As Juventus delay the completion of the deal, other clubs are attempting to capitalise on the opportunity. Nottingham Forest have made contact regarding a potential transfer, hoping to convince Sancho to join them ahead of their European campaign this season. The club are looking to strengthen their squad with experienced players as they prepare for continental competition.

Despite Forest’s approach, Sancho is not interested in the move. According to Calciomercato, he has rejected the possibility of joining the Premier League side and remains committed to his agreement with Juventus. The English winger views Juve as the ideal destination that aligns with his ambitions and playing level.