Barcelona will not launch the offensive to sign 23-year-old Portuguese defender Tiago Djalo, with club sources denying any interest.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Tiago Djalo is not the subject of interest from Barcelona. Recent updates suggested that the reigning La Liga champions were keen on signing the 23-year-old from Ligue 1 club LOSC Lille. But club sources have denied such claims to Mundo Deportivo.
Tiago Djalo is a graduate of AC Milan’s famed youth division, although he spent most of his formative years in his homeland. The Portuguese defender has also trained at Sporting CP. Meanwhile, his spell at AC Milan did not last long, with LOSC Lille snapping him up in August 2019.
Since then, the 23-year-old has seen his stock rise considerably, turning out over 100 times for the Ligue 1 club while chipping in with three goals and two assists. But Djalo’s contract situation has left Lille in a spot of bother, as he has entered the final year of his deal with the Ligue 1 outfit. Such a situation has alerted several clubs across Europe.
Widespread reports have linked the Portuguese centre-back with several Serie A heavyweights. His former club, AC Milan, might also look to complete a Bosman move for the versatile defender. But the recent updates also pointed to Barcelona being interested in Djalo.
Barcelona bolstered the defensive unit this past summer by signing Inigo Martinez in a Bosman move. But the Spanish international is on the wrong side of 30 and approaching the final phase of his career. So, Martinez will be a short-term solution for Barcelona, who might have to delve into the market again.
The Catalan giants are seemingly targeting versatile defenders, with several other centre-backs emerging on their radar. But Tiago Djalo was also a viable target, considering he can play across the backline. In addition, his impending free-agent status made him an appealing prospect. But club sources have denied Barcelona’s interest in Djalo.
Meanwhile, the 23-year-old is not the only Lille defender on Barcelona’s radar. Recent reports have also linked the reigning La Liga champions with Leny Yoro. So, it will be interesting to see if they enter the market for versatile central defenders next summer.
