Middlesbrough are closing in on the signing of Lausanne Sport striker Kaly Sene after the player completed a medical in the North East.
The 24-year-old forward has been omitted from Lausanne’s Conference League squad amid strong indications he is bound for the Riverside Stadium.
Boro Find Their Striker Solution
Boro boss Rob Edwards has been seeking additional firepower despite his side’s positive start to the Championship season. Tommy Conway has led the line well but doubts remain about whether he can provide the prolific return required to sustain a promotion challenge. Following unsuccessful moves for Metz forward Cheikh Sabaly and links to David Strelec, the Teessiders have turned their attention to Sene, whose form in Switzerland has made him a hot property.
Sene began his senior career with Juventus, featuring prominently in their youth setup before moving to Swiss football. Since joining Lausanne Sport, he has built a reputation for pace, movement and an eye for goal. Already this season he has scored six times in just eight appearances, form that has accelerated interest from abroad.
Lausanne’s sporting director Stéphane Henchoz confirmed Sene’s omission from their squad to face Besiktas, explaining that negotiations with Middlesbrough had reached an advanced stage.
“Kaly is not with us in Istanbul. He’s in the process of finalising a departure. We’ve reached an agreement with the club,” Henchoz said. “We received the amount we thought was right. Compared to the offer we received, and his desire to go to this club, all the parameters were met.”
Why Sene Fits Middlesbrough
The deal, believed to be worth around £4.5 million, would provide Middlesbrough with a forward profile reminiscent of previous success stories like Emmanuel Latte Lath and Chuba Akpom. Both thrived in Edwards’ attack, and Sene’s blend of speed and sharp finishing could bring similar returns.
Henchoz admitted disappointment at losing a key striker with only a year left on his contract but accepted that Sene’s ambition to test himself in England and the financial offer on the table left Lausanne with little choice. The Senegalese striker’s final act for the Swiss side may have been his prolific start to the season, ensuring the club at least cashes in at peak value.
Writer’s View
This deal represents smart business for Middlesbrough. A fee of £4.5 million for a forward in form and with experience in European competition appears a calculated gamble that could deliver significant rewards. Edwards has overseen a strong start to the season, but the addition of a striker capable of reaching double figures could be the decisive factor in sustaining a promotion push.
Sene may not arrive with the reputation of some alternatives, but his current form and hunger suggest he could quickly become a Riverside favourite.
