Lazio starlet Keita Balde Diao has rejected a call from Senegal, as he would prefer to play for Spain.
The 18-year-old has already become an important figure with the Aquile this season and caught the attention of Senegal manager Alain Giresse.
Lazio starlet Keita Balde Diao has rejected a call from Senegal, as he would prefer to play for Spain.
The 18-year-old has already become an important figure with the Aquile this season and caught the attention of Senegal manager Alain Giresse.
“I spoke to his club and they let me know Keita has chosen Spain,” explained Giresse.
“He was born in that country, so it is normal he has made this decision to play for Spain.”
Keita was born in Arbucias in Cataluña from Senegalese parents and grew up in the Barcelona youth academy.
He was sent out to a satellite club on loan aged 15 after a prank during a tournament in which he left an ice cube in a teammate’s bed.
Taking advantage of the Spanish rules, he refused to return to Barcelona, so Lazio were able to pick him up for a reported €300,000.