Ibrahim Yalatif Diabate has signed for Deportivo Alavés, choosing a move to Spain over a proposed switch to Egypt.
The 26-year-old striker, who had been expected to join Al Ahly, will instead continue his career in Europe after completing a winter transfer to the La Liga club.
Alavés officially unveiled the Ivorian this week, confirming the start of a new chapter for the forward in Spanish football.
Diabate does not immediately join on a permanent basis. The agreement sees him arrive on a paid loan worth €400,000, with the deal running until 30 June 2026.
The structured arrangement gives the Basque side time to assess his impact before making a longer-term commitment.
The contract also includes an option to buy for €2.5 million, which Alavés may activate at the end of the loan spell.
Should Diabate replicate the form he displayed last season, the club could move to secure his services permanently.
The Bouaké-born forward arrives with a strong scoring record. Last season, he featured in 33 matches in all competitions, scoring 20 goals and providing five assists.
His performances saw him finish as the top scorer in the Swedish league, underlining his attacking credentials ahead of the move to Spain.
Despite the transfer, Diabate remains under contract with GAIS until 31 December 2028.
His market value is currently estimated at €1.5 million, according to the specialist website Transfermarkt.
For Alavés, the deal represents a calculated investment during the winter window, balancing immediate reinforcement with financial caution.
For Diabate, it offers the opportunity to test himself in La Liga and potentially secure a long-term future in one of Europe’s top leagues.
The coming months will determine whether the loan evolves into a permanent stay, as both player and club assess the success of what has been described as a carefully structured move.
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