Sporting Set to Secure Third Reinforcement for €20 Million

Rodrigo Zalazar has been officially signed for €30 million, and Pedro Lima's deal is reportedly finalized for around €4 million. Next in line is Issa Doumbia, with his transfer expected to be concluded in the coming days, likely before the Portuguese Cup final against Torreense on May 24th. Sporting is anticipated to pay approximately €20 million for his services.

The departures of Morita (whose contract expires) and Morten Hjulmand (who has a summer exit promised), coupled with the likely placement of Kochorashvili and Daniel Bragança entering his final contract year, necessitate a midfield overhaul for the green and whites. This explains their strong pursuit of the Italian U21 international from Venezia and the dream of bringing Palhinha back as the Dane's replacement.

Negotiations for Issa Doumbia are ongoing, and while Italian reports suggest an immediate conclusion, new rounds of talks are expected in the coming days to finalize the deal. Initially, Venezia sought no less than €15 million, but with English competition from Brentford, Newcastle, and Everton, they are now demanding around €20 million. Sporting, committed to signing the 22-year-old midfielder, is prepared to meet this valuation.

At Alvalade, the midfielder is set to sign a five-year contract, valid until June 2031, which includes an €80 million release clause.

This represents an unprecedented early market offensive by the Lions, even with the 2025/2026 season still underway. It underscores the green and whites' determination to provide Rui Borges with a new squad in a timely manner. By the end of May, the coach could already have three new reinforcements for the upcoming season.