Bafodé Diakité Signs For Bournemouth In Record €40m Deal

Bournemouth have signed French defender Bafodé Diakité from Lille. The fee is €35 million plus €5 million in add-ons, making him one of the club’s most expensive players ever. Lille finished fifth in Ligue 1 last season, securing Europa League qualification, which further highlights Diakité’s stature as a valuable asset for Bournemouth.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Diakité, 24, has signed a five-year deal with Bournemouth after weeks of talks with Lille. He is known for his versatility and calm play in Ligue 1. His move is done, and he is joining the team as they get ready for the new Premier League season.

WHY IS THIS SPECIAL?

The signing is a strong statement from Bournemouth. After finishing 9th last season, matching their highest-ever top-flight finish, the club has seen important players like Kerkez and Zabarnyi leave, and is actively looking for players to fill those gaps. They need to strengthen their defense, as they try to climb even higher for next season and fight for European spots. Diakité played 32 times for Lille, who came fifth in Ligue 1, where he attracted interest across Europe before Bournemouth invested in him.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR BOURNEMOUTH?

Diakité will be part of Bournemouth’s final pre-season preparations. His new team will start their Premier League season against reigning champions Liverpool, who is their former left back’s Kerkez new team. Bournemouth will aim to climb into the top half of the table with Diakité leading their defense.