Fresh Sheffield Wednesday update delivers major concern for Boro keeper Seny Dieng

Seny Dieng’s short stint at Sheffield Wednesday looks set to draw to a close, with Pierce Charles edging closer to full fitness.

The Seny Dieng arrived at Hillsborough on an emergency loan deal after the Owls were left without a senior goalkeeper due to injury problems. Initially signed for a week, the deal was extended by a further seven days last Friday.

During his brief spell in South Yorkshire, Dieng has made three appearances for the relegated Championship side. Despite suffering defeat in all three outings, the Middlesbrough shot-stopper has drawn praise for a string of impressive saves.

Whether Dieng remains for another week remains uncertain, but his time under Henrik Pedersen appears to be nearing its conclusion regardless. That’s because first-choice goalkeeper Charles is closing in on a comeback from a shoulder injury — and once he is declared fit, Wednesday will no longer be eligible to keep an emergency loan goalkeeper.

Providing an update after assessing Charles’ ability to dive in training, Pedersen offered a positive outlook.

“There was no reaction in the shoulder after his training yesterday so it was good,” he explained. “I think he could be back in one of the next two games. I hope. But let’s see.”

Wednesday could opt to extend Dieng’s stay by one final week to ensure Charles completes his rehabilitation, which would see the Senegal international feature against Derby County and Watford. Emergency loan rules require the player to start every match during the loan period.

However, with Charles so close to returning, Dieng’s 2025/26 campaign is effectively winding down. Failed January moves to Hull City and Feyenoord left him in limbo, while Middlesbrough pushed ahead with a loan deal for Joe Wildsmith from West Bromwich Albion.

As a result, Dieng was not included in Boro’s 25-man EFL squad. Unless a late move abroad materialises — potentially to MLS — he faces a return to Teesside with no opportunity to feature competitively.

Reflecting on his switch to Wednesday, Dieng admitted the opportunity came at the perfect time.

“It’s big for me personally. I have been out for quite a while so it is a very, very nice time to be back,” he said.

“When I heard of the interest, I got really excited. I got a phone call from my agent saying that there was interest from Sheffield Wednesday and I said I was very happy to hear it and told him, ‘Let’s get it done’.”