Danilho Doekhi has joined Italian Serie A side Lazio from Bundesliga club Union Berlin, the Rome-based club announced on Tuesday. The 28-year-old Netherlands international has signed a three-year contract with Lazio, who finished ninth in Serie A last season, and will work under the management of Gennaro Gattuso.
Doekhi progressed through the youth ranks at Ajax Amsterdam before transferring to Vitesse Arnheim, and then to Union Berlin in 2022. During his time with the capital club, the centre-back made 137 appearances, scoring 16 goals and establishing himself as a key player in their lineup. He became known for his aerial ability and contributions from set pieces. Doekhi’s contract with Union Berlin was not renewed, leading to his official departure from the club in May.
His former defensive partner, Diogo Leite, had also been linked with a move to Lazio in recent months, according to various reports. However, it is Doekhi who will now be joining the Italian side, and will wear the club’s light blue kit. Union Berlin will be looking to rebuild their defense following the departures of both Doekhi and Leite.
Lazio will hope Doekhi’s arrival strengthens their backline ahead of the new Serie A campaign. The transfer provides Doekhi with the opportunity to experience a new league and compete at a high level in one of Europe’s top five divisions, and potentially challenge for European qualification with Lazio.
