Lazio Still Keen to Finalize Deal for Portuguese Defender

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The Laziali

·9 April 2026

Lazio Still Keen to Finalize Deal for Portuguese Defender

Lazio are still actively pursuing Union Berlin defender Diogo Leite, who will become a free agent in a few months.

The Background

The Biancocelesti have been tracking the Portuguese centre-back since January, when they were on the cusp of selling Alessio Romagnoli to Al-Sadd and needed a ready-made replacement. In the end, both players remained at their respective clubs, but they’re expected to depart in the summer.

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Lazio Negotiating with Diogo Leite

In recent weeks, Lazio reportedly made important strides in their negotiations with Leite and his agents. However, some reports in Italy claimed that the deal has stalled, with the Aquile already turning their attention towards alternative profiles, especially young Argentine defenders.

But according to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, the deal remains very much alive. During his latest appearance on his Italian YouTube channel, the famous transfer market expert insisted that Lazio are the ultimate frontrunners in the race for Leite.

Lazio is continuing to push to close the deal. Although many clubs are being mentioned, it seems to me that the one most interested and convinced is Lazio. They’ve wanted him for a long time, this is nothing new. Lazio wants to close the deal and are resuming their talks with agents and intermediaries.

Leite Gives Priority to Lazio

Moreover, Romano reveals that the Union Berlin defender has given his preference to Lazio, despite having other suitors.

Another club, not from Serie A, has tried to get involved in recent days, but the player has given priority to Lazio, who are the clear favorites to sign Diogo Leite. Then the agreement needs to be finalized.

Leite started his career at his hometown club, Porto. He rose through the Dragao’s ranks and became a regular feature before moving to Union Berlin in 2022. The Portuguese defender is considered a staple at the German capital side, but his campaign has been hampered by injuries, so he has only made 17 appearances in the Bundesliga.