Tiago Djaló’s departure from LOSC is looming large. The talented central defender, who has been sidelined since March due to a ruptured cruciate ligament, appears set to bid adieu to the Lille jersey.
Paulo Fonseca, LOSC’s manager, confirmed the imminent departure of Djaló, stating, “He is closer to a departure,” on the eve of LOSC’s Coupe de France clash against Racing. Since his arrival in the North in 2019, Djaló swiftly established himself as a linchpin in the Dogues’ defensive setup before his injury setback.
The commendable performances of Leny Yoro and the recently extended Aleksandro during Djaló’s absence have propelled Lille toward contention for a coveted spot on the Ligue 1 podium, diminishing prospects for the recovering defender’s return.
Opting for a fresh start, Djaló has reportedly set his sights on Juventus. Cristiano Giuntoli, the sporting director of the Turin-based club, remarked, “We are down to the details, we hope to conclude in the coming days,” following Juventus’ recent triumph against Sassuolo (3-0). With a contract extending until June 2024, the Portuguese defender is expected to fetch nearly three million euros for LOSC, as reported by Italian media.
Notably, Djaló will reunite with Timothy Weah in Turin, forming a potentially formidable defensive partnership. After a brief stint at the AC Milan training center, the 22-year-old defender is poised to return to Italy, marking a new chapter in his promising football career.