Saer Diop: Italy-Senegal defender joins Forli from Union Brescia

Italy-Senegal centre-back Saer Diop has joined Serie C side Forli from Union Brescia in a completed move ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.

The 21-year-old, who was born in Russi and stands at 1.85m, leaves Union Brescia after a series of loans and steps into a new chapter with the Emilia-Romagna club. The transfer is a permanent switch between Serie C divisions, with Diop moving from Group A to Group B.

Diop, a right-footed central defender, arrived at Union Brescia in July 2025 following a free transfer from Feralpisalo earlier that year. During his time on their books he spent spells on loan at Ospitaletto and Sorrento, gaining senior experience in Serie C and in the Coppa Serie C.

Before moving into the professional ranks, Diop built his reputation in the Italian youth system. He progressed through Imolese and Inter at youth level before joining Bologna’s academy, where he featured across the club’s Under-17 and Under-19 sides. He was part of the Bologna Under-17 team that won the Italian youth championship in the 2021-22 season.

Across his youth career, Diop made more than 60 appearances in Primavera 1 and also featured in the UEFA Youth League, underlining his exposure to high-level development football. He has also appeared in play-off and cup competitions at youth and Serie C level.

Diop’s move to Forli is registered as a full transfer, with the defender now contracted to the Serie C Group B club from 14 July 2026.