Keita Baldé on Rennes’ Radar, But Lazio Hold Firm on Price Tag
Keita Baldé Diao, the Spanish-Senegalese forward once rumored to be leaving Lazio just days ago, has seen his fortunes shift with the injury to veteran striker Miroslav Klose. Seizing the opportunity to reassert himself in the Roman club’s plans, Keita’s situation remains fluid—with a move still possible before the end of the transfer window.
According to Mercato 365, Stade Rennais are keen to bring in the former La Masia graduate, especially after Ola Toivonen’s departure to the Premier League. Rennes are reportedly proposing a paid loan with an option to buy, and are prepared to invest between €10 million and €11 million in total to land the talented 20-year-old.
However, Rennes face stiff competition from Bundesliga clubs Borussia Mönchengladbach and Bayer Leverkusen, who have already tabled €12 million bids—rejected by Lazio. Club president Claudio Lotito is said to be demanding €15–20 million, looking to spark a bidding war for the promising attacker.
If negotiations for Keita fall through, Rennes could pivot to alternative targets such as Floyd Ayité of SC Bastia or Yassine Benzia, who is nearing a departure from Olympique Lyonnais.
As the transfer window winds down, Keita Baldé’s future remains uncertain—but his performances and potential continue to draw attention across Europe.