Stéphane Diarra is attracting interest from Ligue 2 side Pau FC after his departure from FC Lorient, as the Ivorian winger seeks to relaunch his career following a challenging season plagued by injuries.
Diarra, 26, became a free agent on June 30, 2025, after Lorient chose not to offer a contract extension.
With his future wide open, Pau FC have stepped forward as a potential destination, aiming to secure his services ahead of the new season.
Talks are already underway between the two parties, according to reports from Africafoot, and there is growing optimism that a deal could soon be reached.
A two- or three-year contract is reportedly on the table, which would give Diarra both security and the opportunity to re-establish himself in French football.
For Pau FC, who are eyeing promotion to Ligue 1, Diarra represents a potentially valuable addition—bringing top-flight experience and attacking flair to their squad.
Despite making just six appearances for Lorient’s first team and four more with the reserves last season, largely due to recurring fitness issues, Diarra’s pedigree remains intact.
His past stints with Le Mans, Rennes, and Saint-Étienne have given him solid exposure to multiple tiers of French football.
It’s this breadth of experience that Pau FC are keen to leverage as they strengthen their squad for a competitive campaign.
Diarra, who began his career at FC Évian Thonon Gaillard, was once considered one of the most exciting attacking prospects in Ligue 2.
His pace and direct play on the right flank made him a standout performer during his time at Le Mans, eventually earning him a move to Rennes in 2020.
However, injuries have hindered his progression in recent seasons, leaving him searching for a new chapter to revive his form and confidence.
Still valued at €800,000 according to Transfermarkt, Diarra previously earned an annual salary of €219,754 at Lorient—approximately 142 million FCFA.
Pau FC are understood to be structuring an offer that reflects both his potential upside and recent injury record.
If an agreement is finalized, Diarra would join Pau’s preseason preparations and look to reignite a career that once promised much.
For the Béarn club, landing the Ivorian could be a smart move in their ongoing quest to climb the ranks of French football.
