After Zalazar, Varandas ‘to move for’ Benfica target Issa Doumbia | OneFootball

Sporting are closing in on Issa Doumbia after sealing a rapid deal for Rodrigo Zalazar with Braga. A Bola reports that the Alvalade club are very close to finalising terms for the 22-year-old Italy under-21 midfielder.

The move could be completed before the Taça de Portugal final, for around 20 million euros paid to Venezia.

Doumbia is viewed as a key part of a midfield overhaul. After Zalazar and Pedro Lima, signed from AVS SAD, Sporting see the Italian as cover for the summer departures of Morita and Hjulmand, while also safeguarding Daniel Bragança’s situation as he enters the final year of his deal.

The midfielder has drawn interest across major European leagues, with previous rumours suggesting Benfica were best placed. The report indicates Sporting are now likely to be the next step in his career.

This season for Venezia, Doumbia, valued at 8 million euros, has made 38 appearances, 37 in Serie B and one in the Coppa Italia. Across 3,189 minutes, he has scored 10 goals and supplied five assists.

Source: Glorioso 1904