Boulaye Dia: Lazio’s Senegal forward linked with surprise Stade Reims return

Boulaye Dia, the Senegalese forward currently at Lazio, is being linked with a surprise move to French side Stade Reims, raising the prospect of a return to the club where he first made his name in the professional game.

The 29-year-old, who holds both Senegalese and French nationality, is under contract in Rome until 30 June 2028 but is attracting interest from Reims, now in Ligue 2, as they look to add proven experience to their attack. Lazio only made Dia’s switch from Salernitana permanent on 1 July 2026 for a reported €11.3 million, having initially taken him on loan for the 2024–25 season.

Dia’s current market value is estimated at around €5 million, a figure that would make him an attainable target for Reims if Lazio are prepared to negotiate. The forward has amassed extensive top-flight experience across Europe, including 112 Serie A appearances with 30 goals and 11 assists, as well as productive spells in Ligue 1 and LaLiga.

A move back to Reims would mark a full-circle moment for Dia, who joined the Champagne side from Jura Sud in 2018 before earning a high-profile transfer to Villarreal in 2021. His performances in France and Spain eventually led to his arrival in Italy and a permanent deal in Salerno in 2023, prior to his step up to Lazio.

For now, Dia remains part of Lazio’s squad, with the Rome club holding a long-term contract that strengthens their hand in any talks over his future.