Union Berlin’s Diogo Leite ‘to sign’ Lazio deal on free transfer | OneFootball

Lazio are pursuing the signing of Union Berlin centre-back Diogo Leite on a free transfer. According to The Laziali, the Serie A club are a step from an agreement.

A January move was explored when Alessio Romagnoli sought a switch to Roberto Mancini’s Al-Sadd. Neither transfer materialised, so both players stayed put until at least season’s end.

Romagnoli is still expected to depart this summer, whether to his longstanding Qatari suitors or elsewhere. Leite’s contract is expiring, and he is already free to sign a pre-contract with another club.

The Portuguese defender suffered a hamstring injury in early February, which scuppered a winter deal. The report adds the parties have remained in regular contact.

Leite is anticipated to recover in the coming weeks, which could permit a medical before any signing. If completed, he would be the club’s second addition for next season, with Villarreal left-back Alfonso Pedraza already signed.

Born in Porto, Leite came through the Dragao club’s academy, then joined Union Berlin in summer 2022. He has made 18 appearances in all competitions this season, registering one assist.

Source: The Laziali