Lazio have reportedly added France U21 starlets Andy Diouf and Ismael Doukoure to their midfield shortlist.
The Italian capital side is looking to add a new midfielder to Marco Baroni’s squad, and he has to be under the age of 22 so he can be registered on the youth list, as the senior squad list is already filled. In recent weeks, the Biancocelesti have been in talks with Empoli for Jacopo Fazzini. And while the deal was close to completion, the negotiations hit a snag, and it remains to be seen if they can still be salvaged.
According to La Lazio Siamo Noi, the Aquile are already considering alternatives, and their scouts have been seemingly active in France. The source names two 21-year-old Ligue 1 starlets who picked the interest of the Serie A side, beginning with Andy Diouf.
The French Senegalese player started his career at Paris Saint-Germain before embarking on experiences with Stade Rennais and FC Basel. He then returned to France through the gates of RC Lens in the summer of 2023 on a deal worth €14 million. Diouf has now cemented himself as a regular starter at the club, and his current price is estimated at around €10-12 million.
The source describes the Frenchman as a more physical midfielder compared to Fazzini. He often plays in the double pivot in Lens’ 4-2-3-1 formation, but occasionally pushes forward to take the attacking-midfielder role.
On the other hand, Doukoure is a more defensive-minded player than Diouf, but can still offer his contribution when going forward. While he originally plays as a defensive midfielder, he has also been tested at the back this season.
The French Ivorian has been plying his trade at RC Strasbourg since making the move from Valenciennes in January 2022. His contract with the French side is valid until June 2026, and his value is circa €15 million