Bologna are considering Lorient's 26-year-old Senegalese centre-forward Bamba Dieng as a more accessible option to strengthen their attack. The club is evaluating alternatives because their primary target, Carlos Espì of Levante, is considered an expensive player to acquire. A deal for him is reportedly dependent on Bologna first making a significant sale. Dieng had a positive season but has also attracted interest from several other clubs and has high salary demands. The Senegal international has 21 caps and 2 goals for his country, a contract with Lorient until June 2026, and a current market value of €6.00m, according to Transfermarkt. In May 2026, it was reported that both SC Freiburg and TSG Hoffenheim submitted offers for the player. He moved to Lorient from Olympique Marseille in January 2023 for a reported €7 million.