Lazio Chase Doekhi and Dominguez for Central Defense

After selling Alessio Romagnoli to Al‑Sadd and Mario Gila to Milan, Lazio must rebuild its back line quickly. The club is now engaged in advanced negotiations for two central defenders to replace the departing veterans. Targets include 28‑year‑old Danilho Doekhi, a free agent who left Union Berlin, and 21‑year‑old Sergi Dominguez, a Dinamo Zagreb prospect. These moves highlight Lazio’s urgency to shore up defenses before the new Serie A season.

Doekhi emerges as a top target

Doekhi, whose contract with Union Berlin expired, is already linked with several top clubs, including Besiktas, Fenerbahce, Aston Villa, Leeds United and Crystal Palace. Fabrizio Romano reports that talks between Lazio and the player are at an advanced stage. The Biancocelesti have reportedly agreed personal terms with the defender, who is now a free agent. If completed, the signing would add depth to a lane that lost two experienced centre‑backs this summer.

Dominguez remains a target despite price hurdles

Dominguez, a former Barcelona graduate, is now at Dinamo Zagreb and is valued at €12 million by his club. Lazio’s director Angelo Maria Fabiani traveled to Croatia earlier this week to discuss a loan deal worth €3.5 million with an optional buy‑out of €8 million. The initial proposal was rejected, prompting Lazio to prepare a new, more attractive bid. The club hopes the revised offer will finally convince Dinamo to sell the 21‑year‑old defender.

Diogo Leite dropped from Lazio’s plans

Lazio director Angelo Maria Fabiani’s club also inquired about Portugal international Diogo Leite, but Sportitalia reports they have no intention of pursuing the free‑agent defender further. The 25‑year‑old turned down a move to the Saudi Pro League earlier today. As a result, Leite is unlikely to join the Biancocelesti, keeping Lazio’s focus solely on Doekhi and Dominguez.

What the signings could mean for Lazio

Securing Doekhi and Dominguez would give Lazio a reliable two‑plus‑one option at centre‑back, easing the burden on younger defenders. The new arrivals could also create healthy competition, pushing the existing back line to improve their standards. With a solid defensive unit, Lazio will aim to reduce the goals conceded and become a tougher outlet in Serie A. The summer reshuffle signals a strategic effort to rejuvenate a sector that has been a focal point for critics in recent campaigns.