Dutch defender Danilho Doekhi has officially joined Lazio as a free agent, the club confirmed on Sunday. The 24-year-old underwent his medical and was presented to the media at the Lazio Training Center in Formello.
Doekhi arrives in Rome after his contract with Vitesse Arnhem expired at the end of the previous season. He expressed his delight at joining the Serie A side, stating that Lazio felt like the perfect fit for his playing style. The centre-back indicated he received multiple offers as a free agent but chose Lazio without hesitation.
During his time at Vitesse, Doekhi established himself as a key player, known for his defensive solidity and occasional goal-scoring contributions. He regularly captained the side, demonstrating leadership qualities that manager Maurizio Sarri will likely value. Last season, he made 32 appearances across all competitions for Vitesse.
Doekhi highlighted his ability to adapt to different formations, having played in both four and five-man defensive systems. He previously played with several Dutch players who had successful spells in Italy, including Kelvin Leerdam, Miquel Nelom, and Marco van Ginkel, and has always harbored a desire to play in the Italian league. He also spoke with veteran defender Leonardo Bonucci, who visited the training ground, seeking insights into the nuances of Italian football.
The acquisition of Doekhi addresses a clear need for defensive reinforcement at Lazio. The club is preparing for the upcoming Serie A season and will be competing in European competition. Doekhi’s arrival provides Sarri with another option in central defence, increasing competition for places and adding depth to the squad. This move is expected to strengthen Lazio’s backline as they aim to challenge for a top-four finish and make an impact in Europe.
