Senegal striker Bamba Dieng confirms departure from Lorient amid European interest

FC Lorient will not retain striker Bamba Dieng, with the Senegal international set to leave the club on a free transfer this summer after deciding against renewing his contract.

The 26-year-old forward has informed the club of his intention to move on, bringing an end to his spell in Brittany despite efforts from Lorient’s management to extend his stay.

Dieng is one of several attacking players expected to depart the club at the end of the season, with fellow Senegalese forward Sambou Soumano also scheduled to leave when his contract expires on July 1.

According to reports from Foot Mercato, Lorient made attempts in recent months to convince Dieng to remain at the club, but the striker has now opted to seek a new challenge elsewhere.

The decision marks a notable shift given the turbulent nature of his earlier period at the club. Last summer, Lorient’s hierarchy had looked to move him on, but Dieng remained and went on to rebuild his standing within the squad through consistent performances.

His response on the pitch proved decisive. Dieng scored 16 goals in 25 appearances across all competitions, underlining his importance to the team’s attacking output and re-establishing his reputation as a reliable goalscorer.

That resurgence has not gone unnoticed across Europe. Clubs in Spain, France, Germany and England are all reported to be monitoring his situation closely ahead of the upcoming transfer window.

Despite improved relations in recent months between player and club, Dieng’s decision now brings his Lorient chapter to a close.

With his contract expiring, he will be available on a free transfer, increasing his attractiveness to potential suitors.

Lorient now face the prospect of reshaping their attacking options ahead of next season, while Dieng prepares for what could be another step in his European career following a productive spell in Ligue 1