Lecce’s Tiago Gabriel had an impressive 2025/26 campaign and the defender is now attracting attention from Bournemouth.
The centre-back joined the club in January 2025 and he didn’t disappoint in his first full season in Italy. He played 37 times in Serie A, playing a big role in helping Lecce fight relegation and finish 17th.
Sport Witness have covered West Ham’s interest in the Portuguese defender over the past year. Their approach was rejected by Lecce, and it’s clear that more English clubs will join the chase.
Now, it is Bournemouth who are keen on signing the rising defensive star.
Cherries have scouted Tiago Gabriel
Sky Italia report the 21-year-old has been one of Lecce’s ‘key players’ in their Serie A survival. There is now the possibility of him leaving the club this summer.
He has now caught the attention of Bournemouth sporting director Tiago Pinto, who also happens to be a compatriot. The Portuguese has been the mastermind behind several deals involving the Cherries and Italian clubs.
That is why the South Coast club have scouted the defender many times since January. Soon, their attempts can become serious and Bournemouth’s offer ‘could soon arrive’.
For now, Lecce’s valuation remains unknown. But more English clubs can also join the race and this will lead to the escalation of his price tag.
Cherries should keep pushing
Lecce thrive on making big sales, preferably to English clubs. They were close to selling Nikola Krstovic to Leeds United months after Patrick Dorgu joined Manchester United. Bournemouth can take advantage of that, even if a deal won’t be cheap.
The money could be worth it. The youngster isn’t exceptional on the ball but boasts immense physical abilities. Aerially, he is one of the best in Serie A and he uses his tall frame to take down attackers and start attacks.
