Alavés keen to keep Ivory Coast striker Ibrahim Diabaté after loan spell

Deportivo Alavés are interested in extending the stay of Ivory Coast striker Ibrahim Diabaté after a promising loan spell from Swedish side GAIS, with the player now at a crossroads over his next career move.

The 26-year-old joined the La Liga side for the second half of the season and, despite often being used as a substitute, he has made a positive impression on both the coaching staff and club hierarchy.

Spanish newspaper El Correo reports that Alavés are satisfied with his performances and are keen to keep him beyond the current loan arrangement.

However, any permanent move is complicated by the €2.5 million purchase option included in the deal. The Basque club reportedly feel this valuation is too high and not fully aligned with their assessment of the striker’s current market value.

As a result, Alavés are expected to open discussions with GAIS in an attempt to negotiate a reduced fee or an alternative agreement that would allow Diabaté to remain in Spain.

The striker was a standout performer in Sweden last season, finishing as GAIS’s top scorer with 18 goals and five assists, form that helped raise his profile before his move to La Liga.

Despite that strong record, his contract in Sweden runs until December 2028, meaning GAIS are under no immediate pressure to sell unless a suitable offer is received.

During his loan spell in Spain, Diabaté has scored twice in 10 appearances, showing flashes of his finishing ability while adapting to a higher level of competition.

A permanent switch to La Liga would represent a significant step in his career and a chance to establish himself in one of Europe’s top leagues. However, the outcome now depends on whether Alavés and GAIS can reach an agreement in the coming weeks.