Lazio Intensify Pursuit of Doekhi and Dominguez, Rule Out Diogo Leite

FolioPitch.com – 12 July 2026 | Lazio are making significant moves in the transfer market to bolster their defensive line, with the club pushing for Danilho Doekhi and Sergi Dominguez while cooling interest in Diogo Leite. The Roman side is forced to revamp its backline following the departures of Alessio Romagnoli to Al-Sadd and Mario Gila to AC Milan. This article examines the latest developments as Lazio push for Doekhi and Sergi Dominguez but not Diogo Leite.

According to multiple sources, including transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Lazio are in advanced negotiations to sign free agent Danilho Doekhi. The 28-year-old Dutch defender’s contract with Union Berlin expired at the end of last season, making him an attractive option for clubs seeking immediate reinforcement without a transfer fee. Doekhi has been linked with several other teams, including Besiktas, Fenerbahce, Aston Villa, Leeds United, and Crystal Palace, but Lazio appear to be leading the race. The Aquile have reportedly offered a lucrative contract to the experienced center-back, who could provide stability and leadership to a defense in transition.

In addition to Doekhi, Lazio are also pushing hard to secure the services of Sergi Dominguez from Dinamo Zagreb. The 21-year-old Spanish defender, a former Barcelona youth product, has already agreed personal terms with Lazio, but reaching an agreement with his current club has proven more challenging. Dinamo Zagreb is demanding a fee of around €12 million, which Lazio are not yet willing to meet outright. Lazio director Angelo Maria Fabiani traveled to Croatia earlier this week to negotiate, but the initial proposal—a loan worth €3.5 million with an option to buy for an additional €8 million—was rejected. Lazio are now preparing a new bid to convince Dinamo to sell, potentially increasing the guaranteed upfront payment to secure the young talent.

The pursuit of Dominguez aligns with Lazio’s strategy of blending experienced players with promising youngsters. Dominguez, who can play as a center-back or right-back, has impressed during his time in Croatia and is seen as a player with high potential. His acquisition would not only fill a gap in the squad but also represent an investment for the future.

While Lazio have explored the possibility of signing free agent Diogo Leite, reports indicate that the club is not currently intent on pushing further with those talks. The Portuguese international, who left Union Berlin at the end of the season, reportedly turned down an offer from the Saudi Pro League today. However, Lazio seem to have shifted their focus entirely to Doekhi and Dominguez, effectively ruling out a move for Leite at this moment. This decision underscores Lazio’s clear transfer strategy: prioritize Doekhi as an experienced leader and Dominguez as a young prospect, rather than adding another free agent in Leite.

The defensive overhaul comes after a turbulent season for Lazio, who finished seventh in Serie A and saw their defensive stability compromised by the sales of key players. Romagnoli’s move to Al-Sadd and Gila’s transfer to Milan left significant holes, making the summer window crucial for sporting director Angelo Fabiani and his team. With the new season approaching, Lazio push for Doekhi and Sergi Dominguez but not Diogo Leite, a strategy that reflects their desire to balance immediate needs with long-term planning.

Doekhi’s arrival would bring Bundesliga experience and aerial prowess, while Dominguez offers versatility and technical ability. If Lazio succeed in securing both players, they would have a revamped defense capable of competing at a higher level. The addition of Doekhi on a free transfer represents a low-risk, high-reward move, whereas signing Dominguez would require a more significant investment but could yield dividends in the coming years.

As negotiations continue, Lazio fans will be eager to see whether the club can finalize these deals. The coming days are expected to be decisive, with Lazio aiming to complete the Doekhi signing quickly and improve their offer for Dominguez. The club’s transfer activity suggests a clear plan: Lazio push for Doekhi and Sergi Dominguez but not Diogo Leite, a decision that could shape their defensive lineup for the upcoming campaign. With the season opener looming, time is of the essence, and Lazio will hope to secure their targets soon to allow for proper integration into the squad.