Boulaye Dia agrees to join Stade Rennais from Lazio

Stade Rennais have reached an agreement with Boulaye Dia, taking a major step towards adding the Senegal international to Franck Haise’s attack. The move is not complete, however, because Rennes and Lazio have yet to agree on the transfer fee and the structure of the operation.

Dia, 29, is a centre-forward who holds Senegalese and French nationality. He is currently with Lazio, where his market value is listed at €5 million. His transfer history includes a permanent move from Salernitana to the Italian club for €11.30 million, after earlier spells involving Villarreal and Salernitana.

Rennes are seeking another attacking option after Breel Embolo’s departure to Atlanta United. That leaves Esteban Lepaul needing additional support as the Breton club prepares for a season that includes Europa League football. Rennes opened the campaign with a 2-2 draw against Paris Saint-Germain and are due to face Le Mans in the second round of fixtures.

Dia is favourable to a return to France, having previously played for Stade de Reims before moving abroad. Rennes must now close the gap with Lazio before the end of the transfer window. Until that agreement is reached, the player’s approval remains an important but incomplete stage in the proposed return to Ligue 1.