Bournemouth Land Bafode Diakite in Blockbuster Transfer — Second Biggest Deal in Club History.
Bournemouth have made a major statement in the transfer market, securing the signature of French defender Bafode Diakite from Lille on a five-year deal. The move, confirmed on Wednesday, makes Diakite the second most expensive signing in the club’s history.
While the Cherries have kept the exact figures under wraps, British media reports place the deal at €35 million ($41 million) plus €5 million ($5.86 million) in potential add-ons — only topped by the £40.2 million ($54.49 million) splashed on Evanilson last summer.
A New Era for Bournemouth’s Back Line
Diakite joins immediately under manager Andoni Iraola, with his debut potentially coming in the high-stakes Premier League season opener against Liverpool on Friday night at Anfield. The 24-year-old will don the number 18 shirt for the Cherries.
Last season, the versatile centre-back proved his value at Lille, making 48 appearances and netting four goals. Across his time at the French club, he tallied 13 goals in 112 matches — an impressive return for a defender.
His arrival fills a critical void after Dean Huijsen’s move to Real Madrid and Illia Zabarnyi’s switch to Paris Saint-Germain.
Diakite’s First Words as a Cherry
“I know the coach has great ideas, which will help us play well in the Premier League,” Diakite said in his first interview. “I’m a defender who loves to have the ball and play with it. I will give everything for the team, and I hope we’ll create unforgettable moments together.”
Summary
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Player: Bafode Diakite
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From: Lille (France)
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Fee: €35M + €5M add-ons (second most expensive in Bournemouth history)
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Contract: 5 years
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Shirt Number: 18
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Debut Chance: vs Liverpool, Anfield opener
With one of their biggest signings ever, Bournemouth are showing ambition ahead of the 2025/26 season. The question now: can Diakite help turn the Cherries into genuine contenders?
Fans, buckle up — this season could be one to remember.
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