Inter Milan has officially announced the acquisition of midfielder Andy Diouf, 22, from RC Lens. The transfer is reportedly for a fee estimated to be in the region of €23-25 million.
Diouf honed his skills at the renowned Stade Rennais academy, making his professional debut for his childhood club before embarking on a loan spell with Swiss side Basel during the 2022/23 season. This move to Basel was made permanent in the summer of 2023; however, Diouf did not feature for the Swiss club again after the permanent transfer.
His talent had previously captured the attention of Lens. Bolstered by their UEFA Champions League qualification and several lucrative player sales, Lens secured the services of the France youth international for €14 million, making him their third most expensive signing in club history.
During his two seasons with Les Sang et Or, Diouf made a total of 68 appearances, which included participation in the club’s European campaigns, and scored two goals. Nevertheless, his departure from northern France leaves a lingering sentiment among supporters that they hadn`t fully witnessed him unleash his true potential.