Bournemouth Sign Diakite as New Zabarnyi Replacement
French Defender Bafodé Diakité Joins Bournemouth for Record Fee
AFC Bournemouth have bolstered their defense with the signing of French center-back Bafodé Diakité from Lille OSC for a reported fee of up to £34.6 million ($47 million). The 24-year-old defender, who is known for his strength, pace, and versatility, is set to make his debut for the Cherries against champions Liverpool in the opening game of the Premier League season.
Diakité, who has made 112 appearances for Lille, including 10 in the Champions League last season, has expressed his excitement about joining Bournemouth. He indicated his preference for playing with the ball as a defender and believes his skills will complement the team's style of play.
The arrival of Diakité at Bournemouth could potentially strengthen their defense, as they aim to improve on their ninth-place finish in the Premier League last season, which equalled their best ever season in the English top-flight.
The transfer of Diakité makes him the second most expensive defender in Bournemouth's history, with Evanilson holding the record as the most expensive signing in the club's history, having joined last year. Unfortunately, the departure of Diakite, along with defenders Zabarnyi and Dean Huijsen, means that all three have left the club during this transfer window. Zabarnyi has joined the European champions for a reported £57 million, while Huijsen made a £50 million move to Real Madrid in June.
The transfer of Diakité is significant as he has played at the highest levels of football, including the Champions League. He has also represented France at the Olympics. Bournemouth's manager Andoni Iraola sees Diakité's qualities as key to strengthening their squad for the Premier League season. Diakité has assured the Bournemouth faithful that he is ready to give his best for the team and contribute to their success in the upcoming season.
[1] Bournemouth sign Diakité for club-record fee - BBC Sport, 1st August 2025 [2] Diakité joins Bournemouth for £34.6m - Sky Sports, 1st August 2025
- With Diakité's arrival at Bournemouth, the French defender becomes part of a team striving to elevate their game in the Premier League, following his successful performances in European-leagues like the Champions League.
- As Diakité prepares for his debut against champions Liverpool, football fans around Europe are eager to witness the impact of the talented French defender in the Champions League and English Premier League, both competitions where he has previously shone.
- Amidst the ongoing transfer frenzy, Diakité's move to Bournemouth marks an opportunity for him to demonstrate his prowess in the English Premier League, after representing France at the Olympics and excelling in premier European-leagues like the Champions League.
