Ibrahim Diabaté has chosen to continue his season in La Liga after agreeing a loan move to Deportivo Alavés, ending weeks of speculation over his future during the winter transfer window.
The 26-year-old Ivorian striker had been the subject of strong interest from several clubs across Europe, but it is the Spanish side who have secured his signature.
Alavés completed a loan deal that runs until the end of the season and includes an option to buy, allowing the club to assess the forward before deciding on a permanent move.
Diabaté’s decision brings clarity to a transfer saga that attracted attention in multiple leagues.
German club Augsburg and English side Leicester City were both reported to be considering similar arrangements, but Alavés ultimately won the race by finalising terms with the player and his parent club.
In recent weeks, Diabaté had also been linked with a potential move outside Europe, with Sharjah FC mentioned as a possible destination.
However, that option failed to materialise, leaving the striker to weigh up competing offers as the window progressed.
By opting for Spain, Diabaté has chosen to test himself in one of Europe’s top domestic leagues.
The move offers him a new platform to showcase his abilities at the highest level, while also providing Alavés with additional attacking options for the remainder of the campaign.
Despite the temporary nature of the deal, Diabaté remains under long-term contract with GAIS, where he is tied until December 2028.
His status as a key asset to the club was reflected in the level of interest generated during the transfer window. According to Transfermarkt, his current market value is estimated at €1.5 million.
For Alavés, the loan agreement represents a strategic addition as they look to strengthen their squad during the second half of the season.
The inclusion of an option to buy gives the Spanish club flexibility, depending on the striker’s impact and adaptation to La Liga.
As Diabaté prepares for this new chapter, attention will turn to how quickly he can settle into Spanish football.
His move closes one of the more closely followed transfer stories of the winter window, confirming La Liga as his chosen destination after weeks of uncertainty.
