Lorient sees Bamba Dieng head to Al‑Shabab

Lorient has confirmed the departure of its striker Bamba Dieng, who is negotiating a three‑year contract with Saudi club Al‑Shabab. The move, mentioned by Matteo Moretto, is still being finalised as the player and the Saudi side discuss terms.

Why does this exit matter?

The Senegalese forward, who joined Lorient in 2022, scored 12 goals this season, but the club needs to rebalance its squad after a mixed campaign. Lorient sits 9th in Ligue 1 with 45 points, 11 wins, 12 draws and 11 losses from 34 games, and has conceded 51 goals while scoring 48, a –3 goal difference. Losing Dieng leaves an attacking gap the coach must fill quickly.

What does Al‑Shabab stand to gain?

Al‑Shabab, based in Riyadh, is looking to boost its attack for continental competitions. A three‑year deal with Dieng would give the club a forward already accustomed to Ligue 1 demands. The 23‑year‑old could add a new spark and help Al‑Shabab chase the Saudi Pro League title.

What are Lorient's options?

The Breton side is scouting several alternatives, including loaning young academy players and targeting an available European striker this summer. Lorient's last result, a 0‑2 loss to Le Havre on 17 May 2026, shows the team must bounce back swiftly. Their recent form (LLWWD, with the last two matches lost) underlines the urgency for an offensive solution.

When could the deal be sealed?

Reports indicate negotiations are still far from concluded. Both parties await agreement on contractual details such as salary and release clauses. If all goes well, the transfer could be announced before the summer window closes, giving Al‑Shabab a new striker for the upcoming season.