Bournemouth sign Bafodé Diakité

Bournemouth have completed a transfer for Lille centre-back Bafodé Diakité in a deal worth a reported 35 million euros. The 24-year-old defender has been in excellent form in recent years, and is a prolific goalscorer from defence, having bagged 12 goals in 85 Ligue 1 appearances since his Lille debut.

The agreement reportedly includes a base fee of 35 million euros, with an additional €5 million in add-ons. Medical tests and personal terms have also been completed, marking the final steps in sealing the transfer.

This move comes as part of Bournemouth's wider defensive overhaul. With Illia Zabarnyi set for a high‑value move to Paris Saint‑Germain, and Milos Kerkez and Dean Huijsen departing, the club is actively reinforcing its backline, with Diakité being a key target amid interest from other Premier League rivals.

It is understood that Newcastle and Nottingham Forest both had been in contact with Lille with regard to a potential transfer move, but the Cherries made the most lucrative offer and Diakite was given permission to fly to England to discuss terms with Andoni Iraola's side.