San Lorenzo Targets Copa Sudamericana Winner Without Argentine Top Flight Experience

San Lorenzo is making its first moves in the transfer market, with manager Damián Ayude personally contacting Lautaro Díaz, currently out of favor at Cruzeiro, TyC Sports reported. Despite never playing in Argentina’s top division, the 27-year-old forward has proven credentials at the continental level.

A product of Estudiantes de Buenos Aires and with a stint at Villa Dálmine, Díaz rose to prominence at Ecuador’s Independiente del Valle. He played a key role in the team’s 2022 Copa Sudamericana title—scoring in the final against São Paulo—and followed it with another standout performance in the 2023 Recopa Sudamericana.

His move to Cruzeiro in mid-2024 has not panned out. Injuries and the arrival of Gabriel Barbosa have limited his opportunities, resulting in just four goals in 40 appearances without recorded assists.

San Lorenzo, a semifinalist in the 2025 Apertura but among the lowest scorers, is seeking to bolster its thin forward line, currently relying on Andrés Vombergar and Alexis Cuello. Díaz offers international pedigree and experience, making him a compelling if unconventional option for the Boedo side.