Lazio Close to Signing Moroccan Striker as Dia Replacement | OneFootball

Lazio have seemingly found the right profile to replace Boulaye Dia, as they close in on an agreement with Estoril for Yanis Begraoui.

Lazio Part Ways with Boulaye Dia

On Monday, the Biancocelesti have reached a full agreement with Stade Rennais for Dia’s transfer. The Senegalese forward was given the green light to travel to France to undergo his medical before sealing a deadline-day move on Tuesday. The 29-year-old will join the Ligue 1 club on loan with an option to buy for a reported total cost of €10 million.

New Striker Required at Lazio

The former Salernitana star won’t be the only striker to leave Lazio on Tuesday. Gennaro Gattuso had also confirmed Petar Ratkov’s departure. The 23-year-old Serbian will presumably sign for Levante, while Gabriele Artistico was sold to Padova. This leaves new Lazio signing Andrea Pinamonti as the only centre-forward at Gennaro Gattuso’s disposal, hence the need for another new arrival.

Lazio Close to Sealing a Deal for Yanis Begraoui

While veteran free agents Mauro Icardi and Joselu have been mentioned in recent hours, Lazio have instead opened concrete talks for a younger profile. According to renowned French journalist Santi Aouna, Lazio are on the verge of finalising an agreement with Estoril for Begraoui, who would join the club on loan for €4 million with an option to buy for another €9 million.

Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla also confirms that the Moroccan forward is now considered the favourite to join Gattuso’s ranks as Dia’s replacement.

Begraoui Career Path & Stats in Portugal

Begraoui is a French native who started his career at his hometown club of Etampes, and then went on to develop his game at several other academies, including Auxerre and Toulouse. In the summer of 2024, he joined Estoril for a modest transfer fee, but he managed to establish himself as one of the most dangerous strikers in the Portuguese league.

The French-Moroccan netted 11 goals in 34 league appearances in 2024/25, before raising his tally to 20 in as many appearances last term, and has already bagged twice in four games this season. Begraoui is a two-footed player, and while he primarily plays as a striker, he can also feature on either wing.