Ivory Coast international Oumar Diakité has rejected the opportunity to move to English football, opting instead to pursue a return to Belgium as his future remains unresolved during the summer transfer window.
The 22-year-old striker has returned to Stade de Reims following the end of his loan spell and is now available for transfer after the Ligue 1 club agreed to let him leave.
Lincoln City offer rejected
According to French outlet Onze Mondial, English club Lincoln City submitted an offer that matched Reims’ asking price for the forward.
However, Diakité reportedly turned down the proposal, having no interest in continuing his career in England’s second tier.
Instead, the Ivorian has identified Belgium as his preferred destination.
Belgium return top priority
Diakité’s decision is based on both sporting and personal considerations.
After rediscovering his confidence during his previous spell in the Belgian top flight, the striker believes the Jupiler Pro League offers the ideal environment to continue his development.
He scored seven goals during his time in Belgium, rebuilding his form after a difficult spell and establishing himself as a dangerous attacking option.
Diakité is also understood to appreciate the football culture and lifestyle in Belgium, while believing the league’s style of play suits his pace and attacking qualities.
Affordable option on the market
Stade de Reims are reportedly prepared to sanction the striker’s departure for around €3 million, making him an attractive option for clubs looking to strengthen their attack this summer.
The reported asking price is below his estimated €5 million market valuation, potentially increasing interest from Belgian clubs seeking proven young attacking talent.
At just 22, Diakité combines international experience with considerable room for further development, making him one of the more intriguing forwards available during the current transfer window.
With his preference now clear, attention is expected to shift towards whether a Belgian club will meet Reims’ valuation and secure the services of the African champion before the window closes.
